Mark R. Johnson
For as long as I can remember my Mom, Lillie Smith-Johnson, has called me “Mighty Man of God”. Her belief in me and that declaration over my life has been like a keel of a ship, steadying me through life's highs and lows. A mighty prayer warrior with unwavering faith, through her example I continue to learn how to pursue God through prayer, praise and the bible.
I can confidently say that God is my strength and my portion in this life. He sticks closer than a brother, and I know this to be true because as the youngest of three boys and from my time serving in the U.S. Army, I learned very quickly what loyalty and brotherhood was all about.
Having two father’s in my lifetime has been an extraordinary blessing. My biological father, William Johnson, instilled in me his exemplary work ethic. Saturday mornings as a child were for “work” according to my Dad. He always had my brothers and I doing some kind of work - plumbing, carpentry, yard work, mechanic repairs, painting or fixing something, before we got to play. I witnessed him work tirelessly to provide for our family until he passed from illness when I was 25 years old. Later in life, when Mom remarried, I was blessed to learn from a staunch yet loving man of God, Theodore Smith. It was Dad Smith’s display of affection to my Mom that showed me how to love, honor and cherish a woman with tenderness. Watching Dad and Mom holding hands while chatting on the porch on a sunny afternoon will always be one of my fondest memories. It taught me that the simple things in life, are the sometimes the most important.
What excites me most about this business venture with my wife Katrina, is that we bring the best of ourselves to our marriage, our family, our community and this business as part of our pursuit in following Jesus Christ.
With over 20 years tenure at General Electric, I bring to Markat Ventures my agility to adapt to new roles, a demontsrated commitment to loyalty and endurance and the ability to work as teamplayer. I thrive on new challenges and never limit myself. I will continue to draw on all my life experiences, the skills and lessons I’ve collected along the way and the values that I’ve built my life on to ensure our business activities are nothing short of excellent.
My role as Managing Director of MARKAT Enterprises provides me with opportunities to lead with integrity and diligence, creating a legacy with my wife for future generations. We give God all the glory and honor. We are truly blessed to be able to “serve others in life and business”.
Education: Cape Fear Community College, Valor Christian College