Marvin Leon Johnson, Sr., from the Westbury High School Class of 1984 was laid to rest on Saturday May 24, 2014. His service was held at the St. John’s Baptist Church, 1025 Prospect Avenue. The two day event, which included a wake service on Friday evening and funeral service on Saturday morning, was befitting of a local music legend and entertainer who made it to the mainstream. Many came through the doors of the church saddened by his passing but left smiling at what he had done. In life he was able to “move the crowd” and make them smile with the many memories shared by his friends and family.
Reverend Dr. William A. Watson Pastor of St. John’s Baptist Church spoke of Marvin’s good qualities and his compassion towards others. He was always willing to help whether he was asked or not. If someone from the community was in need he was going to help. Bishop Lionel Harvey of The First Baptist Cathedral spoke of the early morning exchanges Marvin and he shared and how Marvin loved his family and friends, and how he wanted the best for them and his community which he loved so dearly.
In his life he was known to the music world as “Kool Marv Dee”, “The Big Father Marv”, “The Bigga”, or his latest alter ego “Lord Taylor”. If you listen to hip hop music and grew up in Westbury/New Cassel you knew his legacy crossed many generations, from old to young. His true passion in life was to make the people smile and feel good through his music. He represented his hometown and neighborhood. Whereever he went, the people knew Westbury/New Cassel was on the scene and the Maplewood Crew was in the building. We have lost our headliner but the show must go on and we must carry his legacy on. Marvin Leon Johnson, Sr. we will smile and remember you. “Can’t Hide That Dragon Pride.”
— Robin L. Garrison Bolling
Marvin Leon Johnson, Sr.
