James R. Johnson

James R. Johnson (Jimmy), age 83, born November 15, 1941 in Sanford, North Carolina, went to be with his Lord and Savior on Thursday, December 26, 2024 at Natchitoches Nursing and Rehabilitation Center surrounded by his two daughters and sons in law.

Jimmy was preceded in death by his parents JD and Margaret Johnson, his first wife and mother to his two daughters, Phyllis McBryde Johnson, his second wife, Cathy Gautier Johnson, his two brothers Tony and Roy Johnson, his brother-in-law, Gilbert Desjarlais, and his step daughter Tammy Jackson Berg.

Jimmy is survived by his two daughters, Tammie Johnson Brian and husband Darrell of Bellwood, Louisiana and Sherri Johnson Watkins and husband Bobby of Ocean Isle, North Carolina. He was Grandpa Jimmy to six grandchildren, Michelle Rawls and husband Josh of Marthaville, LA, Danielle Watkins of Many, LA, Chris Hatchel of Haughton, LA, Robbie Johnson and wife Jennifer of Florien, LA, Courtney Broadway and husband Nelson of Marthaville, LA, and DJ Brian and wife Latasha of Bellwood, LA. He also leaves behind numerous great-grandchildren, a great-great granddaughter, and nieces and nephews as well as his sister Sandra Desjarlais of Sanford, North Carolina.

Jimmy was a man of few words, but his actions spoke volumes. He had a natural sense of humor that brightened the lives of everyone around him, and his laughter was truly infectious. For over 30 years, Jimmy worked for The Yellow Cab Company, where he formed great friendships and created unforgettable memories. He also had a deep love for the beaches of North Carolina, where he found peace and joy. Above all, Jimmy truly loved his family with his whole heart, showing his affection in his own quiet way. May his memory live on in his family forever A memorial service will be held at a later date in Kure Beach, North Carolina. The family would like to thank the Natchitoches Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, Natchitoches Regional Center and Passages Hospice of Alexandria, LA for their care they gave to Jimmy during his time of illness.

A service to honor his life will be held at a future date in Sanford, NC.