Thank you for your generous contribution to The Sam J. Johnson Memorial Scholarship Endowment.
Samuel James Johnson, “Sam”, a longtime and beloved attorney in Austin, passed away suddenly on July 13, 2025 at his home. Sam was born on May 8, 1962, the adored youngest child of June Page and Judge Samuel Dodson Johnson, Jr. Sam filled every room he entered with his infectious laugh. He will be remembered for his big heart and warm personality.
Sam decided to attend the University of Texas School of Law during a campus tour, after noticing a photo of his father on a classroom wall and realizing he was wearing the same suit. He was a member of the Texas Law Review, Chancellors, and Order of the Coif. Sam was a brilliant legal mind, earning his law degree with high honors in 1987. Upon completion of law school, he clerked for Federal District Judge Sidney A. Fitzwater in Dallas. Sam spent the remainder of his career as a trial lawyer at Scott, Douglass, & McConnico where he was a partner from 1990-2025, earning the respect and affection of his clients, colleagues, and adversaries. He fought each case for his clients with unwavering dedication, passion, and professionalism. He was proud to be a part of the SD&M family for over three decades.
Sam is survived by his wife, Maureen Whelan Johnson; his daughters, Caroline Page and Ella O’Keefe Johnson; stepchildren Timothy, Sarah, and Kevin Swanson; sister and brother-in-law Page and Barney Harris; nieces Kathryn Harris Rogers and family, Elizabeth Harris and family; and many loving family members and friends.