After his national service David trained at Bevan Funell to become a French polisher. Eventually he decided to launch his own business.
David founded and ran the successful furniture export business, Rennova, and later, Seaford Antiques from his base in East Sussex where he lived all his life.
His furniture was in great demand and was exported all over the world. He would frequent dealers and shops in and around Brighton during the 1970s and 1980s purchasing collections of old wardrobes and chests and repurposing them into breakfront bookcases. One of which resides in the White House, or so we were told.
David was well known for driving a hard bargain, as anyone who had the misfortune of dealing with him will remember. This would sometimes involve buying five or six pieces and then getting another five or six for free. It is fair to say that he was notorious but well-loved in the trade.
David leaves behind his beloved wife of 64 years, Joyce, his children Tracey, Martin and Stephen, all three of whom followed him into the antiques trade. Martin still runs Martin D Johnson Antiques in Halland, East Sussex. David also leaves behind his four grandchildren Poppie, Abby, Katie and Harry. Goodbye Dad, you are a true legend and we will all miss you desperately. Rest in peace.
From family
