On April 24th, we are kicking off the 2025 Annual Campaign by premiering our Third Annual William Johnson Memorial Banquet. This event is named in honor of one of the largest philanthropists to the Sparta YMCA.
About William "Bill" Johnson:
Bill was born and raised in Sparta, TN, where his ancestors have lived since the early 1800’s
The Johnson farm loaded in Sparta has been in the family for 125 years
Bill was a strong supporter of Future Christians of American (FCA), Young Life, Cru, and the YMCA
Bill was the largest known donor to the Sparta YMCA
Bill earned a scholarship to the University of Tennessee, where he started at Guard
He became a 3 time Letter winner and was named All-SEC and All-American Guard
He helped lead UT to SEC Championship in 1956
Upon returning to Sparta in 1961, Bill soon went to work at First National Bank, where he ultimately served as President
