James William Johnson

James was born August 19th, 1935 in Defiance, Pennsylvania. As a teenager, the family moved to Lansing, Michigan where he graduated from Eastern High School on June 11, 1953.

He spent one year at Michigan State University. On June 30, 1954 he entered the United States Marine Corp, and served 2 years active duty. He was honorably discharged on June 29th, 1956.

In March of 1956, he met the lady who would be his heart and soul, Joyce. They married in September of 1956 and moved back to Michigan where they had their daughter, Cynthia Sue. Six weeks after Cynthia was born, they moved back to Seattle and were lifelong residents. Their son James Paul was born in August of 1958.

James got a job with Metro Transit, and worked for them for one year, before applying with the Seattle Police Department. He began his 33 year career with them in December of 1958. He retired as a Sergeant in October of 1991.

He spent his retirement caring for his parents until their passing, travelling with Joyce and spending time with his grandchildren.

James and Joyce were married 53 years, completely devoted to each other. Joyce passed in March of 2010 of Melanoma cancer. James grieved for her as deeply as he loved her.

James is survived by his daughter Cynthia Sue (Paul). Cynthia has two daughters, Carolyn (Shaun) and Connie (Bob). He is also survived by his son James Paul. James has three children, William (Eric), Melanie (Adam) and Benjamin (Caity). He is survived by one step granddaughter, Courtney (Tom). He leaves a total of 8 great-grandchildren. He was deeply loved by the whole family.

A private graveside service will be held on Saturday May 10th, 2025 for family. A celebration of James’s life will be held in the future, the date to be determined.