MSgt James Allen Johnson, USAF (Ret.)

MSgt James Allen Johnson, affectionately known by many as Mr. Mailman, JJ, Bobo, Dad, Daddy, Pops, Grandpa, Uncle, Brother, Son, and Dr. J, passed away peacefully on February 7, 2026, at the age of 79. A loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, brother, and friend, James lived a life full of energy, laughter, adventure, and unwavering lover for his family, friends, and even his four-legged companions. He will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

Born in Raymondville, Texas, on December 5,1946, James spent his youth in the Rio Grande Valley and proudly graduated from Raymondville High School before continuing his education at Del Mar Junior College in Corpus Christi and Texas A&M University in Kingsville, Texas.

James answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Air Force, where he devoted 24 years as an aircraft mechanic. A lifelong aviation enthusiast, he worked on the F-4 Phantom, T-38 Talon, and F-16 Fighting Falcon, sharing his love of aircraft history with anyone who would listen. His military service took him across the world, including Columbus ein Air Force Base (Germany), Thailand, Korea, Okinawa (Japan), Bergstrom Air Force Base (Austin, Texas), Alamogordo Air Force Base (New Mexico), Nellis Air Force Base (Las Vegas, Nevada), and Hawaii.

Travel remained a lifelong passion. From military assignments to family vacations, James never missed an opportunity to explore the world- whether discovering new cities or cruising to tropical islands, experiencing cultures, beaches, and adventures far and wide.

Following his military retirement, James continued serving others with humor, warmth, and dedication. He worked for Mrs. Baird's Bakery, the United States Postal Service for 18 years, and part-time with the Internal Revenue Service, bringing joy and connection to everyone he encountered.

James was the life of the party and often the sharpest man in the room. His home was always open- a gathering place for family and friends filled with laughter, music, the irresistible aroma of his cooking, and the joy of shared company. He was famous for being the best griller and for making unforgettable gumbo and chitlins, meals that brought people together and created lasting memories. James also loved to dance, showing off his smooth moves whenever the music played and making everyone around him smile and laugh. He never missed an opportunity to celebrate a life, always ready to share a bottle of cheer, and a smile with those around him.

A true Texan, James loved cheering for his Dallas Cowboys and the Texas Longhorns, and game days were celebrated with food, friends, and spirited conversation. He loved to laugh, tell stories, travel, and enjoy life to the fullest. He treated his friends like family and his family with unwavering love.

James was a devoted big brother who deeply loved his siblings. They were not only family but also one another's closest friends, sharing a bond built on love, laughter, and life long memories.

James is survived by his beloved wife of 40 years, Patsy Johnson; his daughter Jo Ann Lynch (Sean); his son James "Jimmy" Johnson (Wendy); his stepson Kenneth Hardison (Renae); his brothers Wade Johnson (Nickoria) and Robert Johnson (Tanya); his sister Secelia Blakemore (Michael); his brother Lester Johnson; his stepmother Johnnie Mae Johnson; and his faithful dog, Jay Jay. He is also survived by his cherished grandchildren, Randall Johnson, Jared Lynch, Ashley Johnson, Vanessa Johnson, and Jessica Hardison, as well as his great-grandson Nicholas Hardison, along with a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Mozelle Johnson; his father, Jessie James Johnson; his daughter, Christy Monzell Vaughn; his sisters, Patricia K. Baker and Betty Johnson; his brother, Robert C. Reed; his most beloved aunt, Laura Henry; and his grandmother, Mary Williams.

A visitation will be held at Cook-Walden Funeral Home, located at 6100 North Lamar, Austin, TX 78752, on February 20, 2026, beginning at 6:00 pm.

The funeral service will take place at the same venue on February 21, 2026, beginning at 11:00 am.

A graveside service will follow at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209, on February 25, 2026, beginning at 11:30 am.