This page is being created by Irene Johnson’s friends and former colleagues. We are people who have worked alongside her in Washington, DC newsrooms and within the DC Fire and EMS family. In this moment of unimaginable loss, we want to surround her and her children with the same care she has spent her life giving to others.

Many know Irene from her years as a videographer at Channel 7 and Channel 4, where she told stories in Washington, DC, with compassion and integrity. Others know her from Washington DC Fire and EMS, where she brought humanity to every call she covered. If you have ever seen a firefighter hand a frightened child a stuffed animal, that was Irene’s idea. It's a simple act of comfort during someone’s worst day. That is who she is.

On Sunday, February 15, 2026, during a family trip, Irene’s husband, Tré Johnson, passed away suddenly and unexpectedly. His four children, Chloë, EJ, EZ, and Eden, along with extended family and friends, are devastated and in shock.

Many people in Washington, DC, knew Tré for his remarkable NFL career. Drafted in the second round in 1994, he played eight seasons primarily with the Washington Redskins (1994–2001). He later spent time with the Cleveland Browns before ultimately returning to Washington, DC to finish his career. A standout at Temple University, he earned a Pro Bowl selection in 1999 and was respected for his strength, durability, and deep knowledge of the game.

But to his family, his greatest title was Dad.

Tré lived for his children's sports. He was at every practice and every game, cheering loudest and encouraging hardest. He had just traveled to Hampton University to watch his son’s first lacrosse home game of the season and had already booked hotels for every remaining game this year. He was determined not to miss a single moment. There are games he will not see now, but the love and dedication he poured into his children will carry them through every one of them.

After football, Tré found a second calling in education as a history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, where he mentored young men who deeply respected and loved him. Even while quietly battling recent health challenges, he remained devoted to his students and his family.

As Irene’s friends, we are asking for support to help ease funeral expenses and provide stability for the Johnson children during this incredibly difficult time. Irene would never ask for help herself, so we are asking on her behalf.

Any contribution, no matter the size, will go directly to supporting Chloe, EJ, EZ, and Eden as they move forward and honor their father’s legacy. If you are unable to give, please consider sharing this page and keeping the Johnson family in your thoughts and prayers.

Now it is our turn to show up for Irene and her children, just as she has shown up for so many others.

With love,

Suzanne Kennedy and Jennifer Donelan