Late Friday or early Saturday the knife community lost a noted authority and good friend to many of us. Michael "Mickey" Johnson of Inman, SC was an avid collector and student of Randall knives as well as Moran and Scagel knives. When Rhett Stidham started the Randall Knife Society he would often get questions regarding Randall knives. Rhett would pick up the phone and call Mickey to get the answer! Michael had been fighting cancer for some time with radiation and chemo. He was hospitalized last week with Covid and apparently his weakened immune system couldn't handle the onslaught. He will be missed. Love that guy.

I had met/talked to him a couple times at Blade. He was willing to share his vast knowledge. At Blade one year, I recall Perry asking Michael a question about Old Brown Micarta.
RIP Michael

The ranks are thinning

I am so sad to hear of this! I had not met him until he came to the shop and collected his prize for the drive membership for the old RKS club. Petfect gentleman then and everytime we met afterwards...his knowledge cannot be replaced by any books...he will missed greatly...

He also did his share, especially in it's infancy, to gather RKCC members.
Fair Winds, Mickey

He also carved a hell of a decoy. RIP

Michael was a good friend to our whole family for many years. His southern drawl was unmistakable when you answered the phone and it would instantly make you smile. We have a glass cabinet in our living room with his carvings in it. I needed to put a stand on one then the whole cabinet was done. I did that a few weeks ago and said I needed send a photo to Michael. Being the procrastinator that I am I never did it and now kick myself for not doing it. His knowledge of knives was always fascinating to hear because he would dig deep into the back story of every one. He will be missed at the Blade show and I will miss his calls.

I didn't know.. Michael "Mickey" Johnson ..and by all those who did , he was a good man, and I am sad at his passing.

Rest In Peace.

Tony

Enjoyed many discussions with Michael in years past.
RIP Old Friend.