Johnson Haynes Jr Obituary, Death – Dr. Haynes will be regarded as a trailblazer who made it possible for young African Americans to follow in his footsteps and pursue careers in medicine as well as a superb clinician and scientist who cared deeply about his patients. We are incredibly saddened to announce the passing of Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D., a stalwart and well-liked community member at the University of South Alabama. He passed away at his house this morning, early. As soon as his family has finalized plans, we will let you know about a memorial ceremony and funeral arrangements.
Dr. Haynes will be regarded as a trailblazer who made it possible for young African Americans to follow in his footsteps and pursue careers in medicine as well as a superb clinician and scientist who cared deeply about his patients. His impact on numerous students, teachers, staff members, and patients over the course of his career continues to this day. He worked as a pulmonologist with USA Health, director of the USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center, professor of internal medicine at the Frederick P. Whiddon College of Medicine, and assistant dean of the office of diversity and inclusion.
Dr. Haynes, a 1980 graduate of the Whiddon College of Medicine, finished an internal medicine residency with USA Health as well as a fellowship in pulmonary medicine. He became the first African American clinical and basic sciences faculty member when he joined the department in 1984. Since August 2001, Dr. Haynes has served as the director of the USA Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center and provided care for the majority of individuals in Alabama’s southern half who have sickle cell disease. The Johnson Haynes Jr., M.D., Comprehensive Sickle Cell Center was given that name in September 2022 by the USA Board of Trustees in honor of Dr. Haynes’ longstanding dedication to the diagnosis, treatment, and promotion of sickle cell disease.
Dr. Haynes advocated for diversity and representation in healthcare and medical education throughout his professional life. He founded the USA Office of Diversity and Cultural Competence in 2011, and in 2014 it changed its name to the Office of Diversity and Inclusion. Along with managing the DREAM and SouthMed Prep Scholars programs, the office supports and recognizes student organizations that work to create safe spaces, engage in group activities, and engage in educational initiatives that value diversity and inclusion. Dr. Haynes also acted as the faculty sponsor for the newly formed Black Men in White Coats chapter at the Whiddon College of Medicine, which seeks to boost the proportion of Black men working in the medical industry.
Dr. Haynes worked on more than thirty grants for research as the lead investigator or a co-author. Countless publications, book chapters, newsletters, abstracts, and reports were also written by him or with whom he collaborated. The National Research Service Award, America’s Top Doctor, the Edith Mitchell Health Initiative Academy of Achievers Perseverance Award, and a Distinguished Alumni Award from the USA National Alumni Association and Medical Alumni Association are just a few of the honors bestowed upon him in recognition of his life’s work.