— By Rich Stevens, WVSWA.org

Chris Johnson’s 28 years as a professional sportswriter were driven by pride and the knowledge that his efforts brought recognition to West Virginia high school and college athletes.

His “small role” in the endeavor — his words — showed the selfless nature of Johnson, a life member of the West Virginia Sports Writers Association.

The 52-year-old Johnson, who lived in the unincorporated rural Barbour County village of Volga, died early Monday morning following a brief illness.

Johnson was in his fifth year at Connect-Bridgeport, an online news and sports outlet that focuses on North Central West Virginia; he managed a multitude of responsibilities, including breaking news stories.

“When you work with someone for nearly six years and their office is beside y

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