James D. Johnson

James D. Johnson was born on December 13, 1927, in Hollandale, MS, to the late Hattie Valentine Johnson and Cornelius Johnson.

He passed away at Meriter Hospital on Thursday, February 6, 2025.

James lost his mom at the age of eight. At an early age, James made the selfless decision to leave school and assist his father in managing the family business. This responsibility shaped his character and nurtured a deeply caring and compassionate heart. Throughout his life, he cared for many.

He accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior in 1976 and again in 2024. James was a devoted member of Mt. Moriah Baptist Church for over 60 years, where he served faithfully as a Deacon, Sunday School Teacher, and Choir member.

James was employed at Joliet Wrought Washers Co. until he retired in 1983, while also working as a Barber. Some of his favorite pastimes included watching sports and movies with his beloved wife, Beatrice Johnson, whom he married on October 2, 1951. He also enjoyed reading the bible, playing pool, gardening, and having morning coffee at Burger King with the fellas. Known by his CB radio handle as 'Shoemaker,' he loved connecting with others through his radio. He was deeply committed to caring for disabled family and friends and generously donated to various charities.

He was preceded in death by his parents, maternal and paternal grandparents, his beloved wife Beatrice, three brothers—Otha, Joseph, and Sylvester—three sisters—Marie, Ruby, and Beatrice—three sons, David, Napolean and James, one daughter, Ruby, as well as numerous uncles, aunts, grandsons, granddaughters, nieces, nephews, and brothers- and sisters-in-law.

He leaves to cherish his memory his sister, Marthella Johnson of Chicago, IL; his daughters, Marilyn Johnson and Ruthie Gavins of Madison, WI; Lillie Brown, Connie (Johnathan) Johnson, Jannie (Victor) Flowers, Annette (Donald) Harden all of Joliet, IL; his son, Arthur (Shiela) Monroe of Joliet, IL; as well as a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

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