James E Johnson Sr.

James E. Johnson Sr., 82, was called home on Tuesday, June 17, 2014. He was born on August 13, 1931 in the “Harbor” of East Chicago, Ind., to George and Ora (Sutton) Johnson. In 1949, he married Johnnie Kate Collard and their oldest daughter Nancy was born. He was later introduced to Rosa Walker, by his cousin, Joe Cloudy. They were married on September 10, 1960 and to that union 7 children were born; James Jr., Sandra, Jerome, Sharon, Sheila, Simone and Sylvia.

In June 1946, at the age of 14, James left school to follow his older brothers into the military. He served until 1949 and received the World War II Victory Medal. He was employed with the United States Steel Mill (USS) and retired after 27 years of service. In 2001, after 56 years, he returned to school, completed his GED, and marched across the stage in his cap and gown to the applauses of his family and friends.

James loved traveling and was deemed an honorary member of the U.S. Navy Reserves because of the numerous trips he took with his daughter during her annual training “AT”. He occasionally mentioned his most enjoyable “AT” was to New York and London. He also enjoyed his annual trip to Las Vegas with family and friends and visiting his children in Atlanta, San Antonio, and the DC Metro area. James was a gentle soul, with a large heart. He was always willing to help those in need and provide his assistance. He will truly be missed by all who loves and knows him.

James is preceded in death by the love of his life, Rosa, his parents George and Ora; 3 brothers Ardis, Charles, and Ivory; and sister Vialilly.

He leaves to cherish his loving memory 8 children; Nancy R. Johnson, James Johnson Jr., Sandra Johnson, Jerome (Tamala) Johnson, Sharon (Eddie) Cowart, Sheila (George) Turner, Simone (Frank) Williams, and Sylvia (Chris) Carson; 11 grandchildren, Nikita, Nina, Nicole, James, Brendan, Crystal, Michele, Allana, Jerome Jr., Latreice, Raymond; 21 great-grandchildren; 1 brother, Russell (Odette) Johnson; 1 sister, Mary Norwood; one special nephew, Russell Johnson, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.