Mr. James Demosthenes Johnson

James was born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1928, to John and Jenny Johnson. He married Joan Kelly in 1950, and they shared many happy loving years together until her passing in 2002.

James is survived by his sister Marlene McFarlane of Edmonds, Washington; his son, James Johnson and his wife Wyona of Springfield, Illinois; and his daughters, JoEllen Richter and her husband Tom of Overland Park, Kansas and Jill Kelly and her spouse Kim of Ashville, North Carolina. He is also survived by his grandchildren; Tom Richter and his wife Hallie and their children Scarlett and Theo of Overland Park, Kansas; Tim Richter of Overland Park, Kansas, and Cameron Hernandez of Hometown, Illinois.

James was a loving father and dedicated to providing for his family. He was an incredibly hard worker and strove to improve himself at every opportunity. His working career spanned factory worker, delivery driver, shoe salesman, retail manager, business owner and regional salesman. When he was younger, he enjoyed playing softball, swimming, ice skating, and bowling. As he grew older his focus shifted to golf which he played with friends from his youth well into his 70’s.

James will be remembered for his love of family, his dedication to hard work, and his sense of humor.