James Henry Johnson

James Henry “Jimmy” “Jim” Johnson, 74, a beloved husband, brother, uncle and friend entered the kingdom of heaven on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at his home in Blue Springs, MO. Jim was born on January 10, 1950, to Thornton and Phyllis “James "Johnson in Kansas City, MO, growing up in Buckner, MO. He was a 1968 graduate of Fort Osage high school. The next year he attended KU. In 1969 he joined the Marines where he proudly served until, he was honorably discharged in 1970 due to illness. On September 3, 1971. He was joined in marriage to Rose Mary Gargotta. They recently celebrated their 53rd year anniversary.

Jim’s adult work history included working at Hallmark, 16 years at Armco Steel, where he received his degree in electrical engineering. He held a Master’s Electrician license in both Independence, and Kansas City, MO.

He and his lifelong friend, Orville English, also started J&O Electric during this time and operated it for 10 years.

In 1985, an opportunity to join General Motors as an electrician at the Fairfax plant was extended to him. He worked there until his retirement in 2015. Jim also held a real estate license working side-by-side with his wife Rose, also inspecting houses in the early 70s.

During his early school years, he enjoyed playing baseball. When he got to high school, he participated in basketball, track, and football, lettering in both track and football. He was also named as Conference Honorable Mention in football during his senior year. He was in the “O” club, as president his senior year, and was voted most athletic by his senior class. He also excelled academically belong to the French club, was a member of National honor society, where he was secretary his senior year, and he was selected to attend Boy’s State in 1967 along with Kirk Phillips and Randy Farris. He also, was awarded the citizenship award his junior year.

As a couple, Jim and Rose were able to be afforded their passion of travel. Jim saw a multitude of states, countries, and islands during their travels, which also included many cruises with family and friends. His favorite island to visit was Aruba, and his favorite country was Italy. Jim’s second passion was his hobby of wine which included the study of wines, wine tasting, and building his own wine cellar. His friends and family benefited GREATLY from it!

Jim was predeceased by his parents and sister, Julia "Judy”. Survivors along with his wife, Rose, include his brother, Thomas, brother-in-law, James Gargotta (Gail), sisters in laws, Donna Adli and Caran Burnside, cousin, Janet Smith of Florida and her children, Debbie, Amy, and Caroline, nephews, Bill Burnside (Lorena) Chris Schibi (Karen), John David Schibi (Tonya), Jacob Gargotta (Trisha Morfeld), David Gargotta, Jonathan Ferguson and nieces, Susan Burnside, Vicki Schibi, and Melissa Spicer (Mike). and great nieces and nephews, Ethan, Alyssa, Megan, Suriah, Eli, Arabella, Josh, Jake, Kristin and Katelyn and a host of friends.

Jim will be remembered for his selflessness and giving nature to humans and wildlife alike. He never made a promise he didn't keep. Rest easy warrior, your fight is over! You can now join your family and fellow Marines in your eternal home. Semper Fi!

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Marine Corps Toys for Tots or Wounded Warriors Project.