James Tyree Johnson

James Johnson departed this life on Wednesday, June 12, 2024. He was born on January 24, 1941, to C.B. Johnson and Annie Bell Johnson in Forrest, Mississippi. He accepted Christ and was baptized at a young age. When he was a month old the family moved to McNary, Arizona and later moved to Las Vegas, Nevada; where he grew up and attended school from elementary through High school. He was the first black starting quarterback at Las Vegas High School and led an all-black offensive backfield.

Jimmy, as he was respectfully known, was a man of sports and a dedicated professional. He began his career as a porter in a Las Vegas hotel and in 1961, he joined Standard Oil as a Salesman. His commitment to his work was unwavering. In 1964, he was drafted into the United States Army and released with an honorable discharged. Returning to his career with Standard Oil (Chevron) and being eventually promoted to station manager. His dedication was further recognized when he was assigned as an automotive service training specialist in the Long Beach, California area. He retired after thirty-eight years of service with Chevron, a testament to his work ethic and commitment, he was one of nineteen national retail trainers with Chevron.

James married Glady Lea in December of 1974 and moved to San Bernardino, CA with his family, where he lived until his passing. He leaves to cherish his memories two sons: Kenneth Lea and James II; two granddaughters: Kennetta Lea and Daedra; one great granddaughter: Maliyah; one sister: Delores Williams; four sisters-in-law: Frances Lea, Shirley Lea, Charlotte Jacobs, and Daisy Lea, three brothers-in-laws: Freddie Jacobs, Harold Lea, James Lea, three step sisters Mildred, Hattie and Alberta; his long-time partner, Willie Mae Thomas, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Gladys Johnson, son Wayne Lea, daughter Annette Johnson and his parents. We will miss him so much.

A visitation for James will be held Saturday, July 6, 2024 from 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM at Palm Mortuary - Downtown, 1325 North Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101. A funeral service will occur Saturday, July 6, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM, 1325 North Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101. A committal service will occur Saturday, July 6, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Palm Downtown Cemetery, 1325 N Main St, Las Vegas, NV 89101.