Former NFL Star Tre’ Johnson Dies at 54: What California Families Can Learn About Protecting Your Legacy After Unexpected Loss

The sudden passing of former Washington offensive lineman Tre’ Johnson at age 54 serves as a sobering reminder for California families: no one is guaranteed tomorrow, and protecting your loved ones requires planning today.

Who Was Tre’ Johnson?

Tre’ Johnson was a respected NFL offensive lineman who spent most of his nine-season career with Washington. Drafted 31st overall in 1994 after starring at Temple University, the 6-foot-2, 328-pound guard earned Pro Bowl honors in 1999. After retiring from professional football in 2002, Johnson dedicated himself to education, becoming a beloved history teacher at the Landon School in Bethesda, Maryland.

On Sunday, Johnson died unexpectedly during a family trip, leaving behind his wife Irene and four children: Chloe, EJ, EZ, and Eden.His wife shared the devastating news on Facebook, describing the family as “devastated and in shock.”

Source: ESPN – Tre’ Johnson, former Washington O-lineman, dies at 54

What This Tragedy Teaches California Families About Estate Planning

For California residents managing assets and protecting their families, Johnson’s sudden death highlights critical questions many people avoid until it’s too late:

Who will manage your affairs if you become incapacitated? Johnson had recently taken a leave of absence due to health issues— a situation that often requires medical and financial power of attorney documents.

How will your family access resources immediately after your death? Without proper estate planning, California probate can take 12-18 months and cost 3-7% of your estate value.

Are your minor children protected? Johnson left behind four children— without a trust or will designating guardianship and asset management, families face uncertainty during an already traumatic time.

Will your family face unnecessary legal battles? Even well-intentioned families can end up in probate court disputes without clear, legally binding documentation.

How Can California Families Protect Their Legacy Like Tre’ Johnson Would Have Wanted?

If you’re a California resident concerned about protecting your family from the complexity and expense of probate court, or if you’re currently navigating the loss of a loved one who died without proper planning, here’s what you need to know:

1. Revocable Living Trusts Avoid Probate Entirely

Unlike a simple will, a properly funded revocable living trust allows your assets to transfer to your beneficiaries immediately upon your death — without court involvement, public disclosure, or the 12-18 month probate timeline. For families with minor children, this means:

Immediate access to funds for childcare, education, and living expenses

Professional management of assets until children reach adulthood

Protection from creditors and predatory family members

2. Healthcare Directives Protect You During Incapacity

Johnson’s recent health struggles that led to his leave of absenceunderscore the importance of advance healthcare directives. These documents ensure:

Your medical wishes are honored if you cannot communicate

Your family avoids agonizing decisions without guidance

You avoid costly and emotionally draining conservatorship proceedings

3. Financial Powers of Attorney Prevent Court Intervention

If Johnson had become permanently incapacitated before his death, his family would have needed immediate access to his accounts to pay bills, manage property, and care for the children. Without a durable power of attorney, families must petition the court for conservatorship — a public, expensive process that can take months.

Why California Families Choose California Probate and Trust, PC

At California Probate and Trust, PC, we’ve helped thousands of California residents create comprehensive estate plans that protect both the legal structure and financial management of their legacies. Our certified estate planning specialists understand that you’re not just planning for death — you’re protecting your family from unnecessary stress, expense, and conflict during life’s most difficult moments.

We offer:

Free 1-hour consultations to assess your family dynamics and asset protection needs

Transparent, fixed-fee packages — no hidden costs or hourly billing surprises

Same-day trust funding assistance to ensure your plan actually works when needed

Offices in Fair Oaks, Sacramento, and San Francisco serving California residents statewide

Take Action Today to Protect Your Family Tomorrow

Tre’ Johnson’s unexpected passing reminds us that planning isn’t about age or health status — it’s about protecting the people you love from preventable hardship.

If you’re a California resident who values transparency and family protection, don’t wait until it’s too late. Schedule your free consultation with California Probate and Trust, PC today.

👉 Visit CPT.law or call (866)-674-1130 to schedule your FREE estate planning consultation.

Legal Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every family’s situation is unique, and estate planning strategies should be tailored to your specific circumstances. The information presented here is based on California law as of February 2026 and may be subject to change. For personalized guidance on estate planning, probate, or trust administration, please consult with a licensed California estate planning attorney. California Probate and Trust, PC is available to discuss your specific needs during a free, no-obligation consultation.