James Arthur Johnson, Sr.

His journey here on earth has ended but his new life has just begun. Our beloved James Arthur Johnson, Sr., 75, departed this life on August 28, 2010. He was born October 26, 1934, the first child to the late Willie L. and Betty L. Johnson. James was preceded in death by two of his brothers, David and Charles. He was raised in Cumberland County, Virginia, where he accepted Christ at an early age. He graduated from Luther P. Jackson High School in 1954 the year in which he was class treasurer. Upon graduating, he moved to Richmond, Virginia where he worked and met the love of his life, Ruth E. Wright at MCV. They were married on May 14, 1956 for what would be 54 devoted years, and they were blessed with seven children. James even worked for the Federal Reserve Bank for 38 years until his retirement in 1994. He enjoyed doing yard work, hunting, fishing and sitting on his front porch relaxing by taking short naps. James was a strong, caring, loving, protecting compassionate, and very devoted husband to his wife and children. He loved having fun with his family. He cherished every moment with his grands. He often stressed the importance of being self-sufficient and doing right by your family. He had a gift of giving and was willing to help anyone. Because of the wonderful love he shared, he will never be forgotten and will always be in our hearts. He will always be remembered for his generosity of love, his smile and his laughter. The love he had for his family was the backbone of his personality. James’ heart was strong, but his body was tired. We are comforted in knowing that he is in a better place and has a better life. The family is so fortunate to have had him in our lives for so many years and we feel empty without him. James was a caring and devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle and friend. He was truly a blessing from God who generated rays of loving sunshine in our house. James leaves to cherish his memories a loving and devoted wife, Ruth E. Johnson; three sons, James Johnson Jr. (Donna), Wilbert Johnson Sr., and Godfrey Johnson (Monica); four daughters, Gloria Broidy, Jacqueline Johnson (George), Vivian Johnson and Emily Moore (Byron Sr.); twelve grandchildren; twenty-one great-grandchildren; two brothers, Willie and Johnny (Janice) Johnson; six sisters-in-law; one brother-in-law; and a host of other relatives and friends, including three devoted, Gary Artis, Robert Pittman, RáJames Wright and TJ.

Tributes

James Arthur Johnson, Sr.

October 26, 1934 - August 28, 2010