Research Center Co-Founder Ralph Johnson Dies
Ralph J. Johnson, one of the founders of the NAHB Research Foundation, Inc. (later renamed the NAHB Research Center), died in Bethesda, MD, on Dec. 11. He was 88.
"The home building industry has lost one of its lifelong champions with the passing of Ralph Johnson," said Michael Luzier, president of the NAHB Research Center. "His vision and leadership truly made a difference in the pursuit of more durable and affordable housing in this country."
Johnson was the first president of the research center and served in that role until his retirement in 1985. A year later, The Ralph J. Johnson Building, home of the NAHB Research Center, in Upper Marlboro, MD, was dedicated in May 1986 in his honor.
Johnson returned to the helm of the NAHB Researach Center as president emeritus for several years in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
In the 1990s, Mr. Johnson was named a life member of the NAHB Research Center Board of Directors.
He is survived by his sons Ralph Jr. and Stephen; stepchildren Kathleen Flynn, Maureen Delaney, Colleen Flynn , Dr. Sharon Flynn and Lawrence Flynn Jr; and one grandchild.