James "JJ" Rufus Johnson

James “JJ” R. Johnson, a Hanford resident, passed away on April 18, 2013. He was at home, in the company of his wife, Pamela Madill-Johnson, and his family. He was born on February 15, 1941 in Magnolia, AR to the late Vernon and Bessie Johnson.

JJ proudly served in the United States Navy and was honorably discharged in 1972. He was a Certified Public Accountant, maintaining his office in Hanford for many years. Additionally, he was a longtime member of the Rotary Club of Hanford and he enjoyed riding a Harley Davidson as much as riding a horse or learning to play golf. His good sense of humor and fair play is legendary and will live on in the memories of his friends and those who loved him.

In addition to his wife, JJ is survived by two children, Jamie Jeannine Rice (and husband Jason) of Medford, NJ and James Russell Johnson (and wife Tammy) of Haughton, LA; four stepsons, Randy Jones (and wife Ivy) of Fullerton, CA, Phillip Jones (and wife Christina) of Hanford, CA, Craig Stiff of Los Angeles, CA, and Jeffrey Stiff (and wife Kristi) of Los Angeles, CA; one sister, Verna Dean Johnson Clark of Magnolia, AR; and numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Cancer Society, 1443 West 7th St., Hanford, CA 93230, specifically for research into the cure of pancreatic cancer, or to the Kings SPCA, 8084 E. Lacey Blvd., Hanford, CA 93230

A memorial service for JJ will be held on Tuesday, April 30, 2013, at 1:30 p.m. at the Episcopal Church of the Saviour, 519 N. Douty St, Hanford, CA.

Arrangements are under the direction of People’s Funeral Chapel, www.peoplesfuneralchapel.com