We regretfully announce the passing of NAGA's former Executive Director, Ladd Johnson, of Cambridge, Maryland....
The staff of most non-profits do their best to remain in the background, allowing the true owners of the organization, its members, and their elected leaders to be the ones to speak for their cause. This culture is prevalent in the NAGA, which exists and thrives thanks to its all-volunteer leadership.
However, life sometimes dictates that we focus on staff members, as it certainly does on this somber occasion, and we regretfully announce the passing of NAGA's former Executive Director, Ladd Johnson, of Cambridge, Maryland. Ladd preceded my time as NAGA's staff leader. Although I did not know him, on the one occasion we met in 2014, he was a gracious and true gentleman, which is exactly how NAGA Board Member and former President Tim Zindl described him when he telephoned me to say that Ladd had passed.
Ladd served the gamebird industry from 2011-2014, and his overall career and life demonstrated a love for the outdoors, hunting and the shooting sports and being on the water. Throughout his career, Ladd served in many capacities involved in conservation and agriculture through his consulting business, Ladd Johnson and Associates.
After graduating from Cambridge High School, he attended Potomac State College and graduated with a degree in Agricultural Science from The University of Maryland. He was a past commodore of the Cambridge Yacht Club and was instrumental in revitalizing the Junior Sail program. He was also a founding member and past president of the Grand National Waterfowl Association, Chairman of the Maryland Migratory Bird Committee and Chairman of the Maryland DNR Waterfowl Commission. Ladd formed the Maryland Legislative Sportsmen's Foundation, where he received the Conservationist of The Year award and the National Assembly of Sportsmen's Caucuses Brad Rowse Leadership Award in 2023.
Woodbury Ladd Johnson peacefully passed away on March 13 at his home with his loving family by his side at age 85. The NAGA family is grateful for his time, dedication to our mission and greater love for the outdoors.
Visit WeRemember.com/Woodbury-Ladd-Johnson/9b6a/Memories for service details.
