James Carl Johnson Jr., 93, of Christopher, IL, passed away November 13, 2016 at his home.
He was born on July 20, 1923 in Helena, Montana, the son of James Carl Johnson and Eunice (Kenny) Elliot and step-father Bob Elliot.
He married M. Geraldine (Overturf) Johnson on November 6, 1953 and she preceded him in death on October 31, 2013.
James is survived by his children Jennifer Carol Johnson, of Christopher and James Carl and Shanna (Bailey) Johnson III, of Goreville, IL; grandchildren James Carl Johnson IV and Evan William Johnson.
James was a master electrician at the Burning Star Mine.
James proudly served in the US Navy from July 1942 to February 1946 as an Aviation Fire Controlman during World War II, in the US Coast Guard from May 1949 to June 1955 as a Fire Controlman, and the US Air Force from September 1955 to April 1965 as an Aircraft Control and Warning Radar Technician. He retired as a Master Sergeant. His awards included Asiatic Pacific Area Campaign with 2 Stars, WWII Victory Medal, National Defense with 1 Star, Air Force Commendation Medal, three Air Force Good Conduct Medals and a Navy Unit Commendation.
He loved to travel, fish and garden.
James was preceded in death by his father, mother, step-father, one son Kenneth Lawrence Johnson, one daughter Mary Francis Johnson, and one brother Kenneth Lawrence Johnson
Graveside funeral services will be held Sunday, November 20, 2016 at 2 p.m. at Smith Cemetery in Buckner with Rev. Dr. Lauren Lambert officiating. Burial will be at Smith Cemetery in Buckner, IL.
There will be no visitation friends and family are asked to meet at the cemetery.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Christopher American Legion. Gilbert Funeral Home in Christopher, IL is in charge of arrangements.
For more information go to www.gilbertfuneralhomes.com.
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