Jim Johnson Jr.

Celebrating the Life of JIM JOHNSON JR. EARLY LIFE AND FAMILY Jim Johnson Jr. was born on May 28, 1950, in Corinth, Mississippi, as the second son of Mother Mary Alice and Deacon Jim Johnson Sr. During his early childhood, Jim lived in Paducah, Kentucky, before his family relocated to Toledo, Ohio, in the late 1950s. From an early age, Jim embodied the qualities of a true country gentleman. His rural roots were evident in his lifestyle and love for traditional, down-home cooking, while his kind and generous spirit showed in his willingness to help anyone in need. EDUCATION AND ATHLETIC PURSUITS Jim’s love for sports was evident throughout his life. At Libbey, Jim played on the 1966 basketball team that competed in the Ohio State Championship. After high school, Jim attended Paducah, KY Community College, where his team won the Junior College National Championship in 1969, before continuing his education at Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. CAREER AND COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Returning to Toledo, Jim began his career at Toledo Edison, where he dedicated 36 years of service before retiring in 2012. In addition to his work at Toledo Edison, Jim was a successful real estate investor, purchasing, renovating and renting homes throughout the Toledo area. FAMILY LIFE Jim started dating Yvonne (McDaniels) in 1966, and they married in 1970. Together, they raised four children: James, Jenice, Jared, and Jodie. Their family grew to include ten grandchildren, three Godchildren. FAITH AND SERVICE Jim joined The Indiana Avenue Missionary Baptist Church in 1973 and quickly became involved with the recreation department. As one of the first Athletic Directors, he helped to create basketball programs for boys, girls, young men, and young women, he also managed the church’s softball programs for young adult women and men. As a Trustee of Indiana for over 30 years, Jim enjoyed assisting with maintenance and repair projects around the church. Jim was a strong man of God. He loved the fellowship of the brothers and the camaraderie. He was the first Men’s Corner speaker. He told everyone he met to “come hear about a man”, at Walmart, the markets, the Dollar Store, the doctor’s offices. He had a servant’s spirit and loved to share Jesus. On October 31, 2025, Jim was ordained as a Deacon of The Indiana Avenue Missionary Baptist church. MUSIC, COOKING, AND FELLOWSHIP Jim enjoyed singing and was a member of the Brothers-in-Christ choir, often saying that all God requires is a “joyful noise.” He was a longtime supporter of the Mass Choir, attending nearly every rehearsal and engagement, even though he did not sing with them. For many years, Jim cooked at the Mass Choir’s fundraisers and cookouts, eventually passing the responsibility to the next generation as he prepared for retirement. In 2009, he was honored as an honorary Mass Choir member. LEGACY AND REMEMBRANCE Jim devoted much of his spare time to supporting his children and grandchildren in their sports activities, spending years coaching and attending AAU games. He placed a strong emphasis on education, wanting all of his grandchildren to attend college. Just two days before his passing, his youngest grandchild, Manny, committed to Eastern Michigan University making his dream complete. Jim was known for his sense of humor, love for life, and the joy he brought to those around him. The many stories about Jim Johnson will continue to be shared and cherished by family and friends. He was preceded in death by his mother, dad and brother, Donald Johnson. He leaves to cherish his memories, his wife Yvonne of 54 years, children James, Jenice, Jared and Jodie. Grandchildren, Jae Sean Tate (spouse Ashley), Jalen Tate, MariAlice Johnson, Jada Tate, Gem Johnson, Kendra Johnson, Jocelyn Tate, Jordan Johnson (Chico), Jara Johnson, and Jakob Johnson (Manny), Great grand-daughter Jovie Tate. God children Donovan Jackson (Betty) and Rashida Hitt. Cousins who were like brothers and sisters, The Pierces, The Johnsons, The McDaniels, The Detroit family, The Traveling Holy Rollers, Keith Smith (Renetta) and a host of others. FINAL FAREWELL Jim Johnson transitioned from this world comfortably, peacefully, and restfully on Friday, November 14th. He fell asleep in this life and awoke in Glory, leaving a legacy of kindness, service, and love that will be remembered for generations to come. Rest in peace Jim Johnson, we all love you and don’t forget to save us a seat.

Jim Johnson Jr.

May 28, 1950 - November 14, 2025