Samuel W. Johnson Receives Distinguished Service Award

Samuel W. Johnson has long been recognized as one of North Carolina’s most respected attorneys and a pillar of his community. A native of Hamilton in Martin County, Johnson earned both his undergraduate and law degrees from Duke University before beginning his legal career in Rocky Mount in 1972. Over the years, he became a trusted advisor to businesses across Eastern North Carolina, building a reputation for integrity, fairness, and professionalism that has never wavered.

Johnson’s legal work speaks for itself. He has been named to Legal Elite and Best Lawyers in America for his expertise in corporate law, business organizations, and mergers and acquisitions, and in 2025 was honored as Lawyer of the Year for Closely Held Companies and Family Business Law. His clients, including Boddie-Noell Enterprises and Barnhill Contracting, describe him as indispensable—a lawyer whose counsel is as valued as his character.

But Johnson’s contributions extend far beyond the practice of law. In 1985 he founded Downtown Renaissance, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to revitalizing Rocky Mount’s historic downtown. Through decades of leadership, Johnson helped transform neglected properties into vibrant spaces, even in the aftermath of Hurricane Floyd. His vision and persistence have left an indelible mark on the city’s landscape.

Johnson also played a pivotal role in creating Carolina’s Gateway Partnership, an economic development initiative that has attracted major employers and millions in investment to Nash and Edgecombe Counties. Among its successes is the Natron Energy project, which promises over a thousand jobs and a $1.4 billion investment in Edgecombe County. Community leaders credit Johnson’s legal acumen and tireless advocacy for these achievements.

His civic engagement is equally impressive. For nearly three decades, Johnson served on the board of the Futrell-Mauldin Community Foundation, helping direct more than $1 million in grants to local causes. He and his wife, Vel, have supported the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, the Boy Scouts of America, and their church community, earning recognition as Distinguished Citizens from both the Rocky Mount Chamber of Commerce and the Boy Scouts.

Those who know Johnson best speak of his humility and quiet strength. US Bankruptcy Judge David M. “Dink” Warren summed it up simply: “There is no better citizen lawyer than Sam Johnson. Everyone loves him.” The North Carolina State Bar is proud to honor Samuel W. Johnson with the John B. McMillan Distinguished Service Award, a fitting tribute to a lawyer whose life’s work reflects the highest ideals of the profession and an unwavering commitment to his community.