JAMES JOHNSON

February 11, 2016

James R. Johnson, 80, of Taylor, Mo., formerly of Galesburg, Ill., died February 2, 2016 at home.

Sonny was born January 27, 1936 in Biggsville, Ill., to Walter E. And Merle Carnes Johnson. He married Evelyn Parmenter July 9, 1955 in Galesburg. She preceded him in death August 3, 1983. He married Donna Conner Schnitzer October 2, 1992.

Sonny graduated from Media High School in 1954 and worked for former CB&Q, BN, BNSF Railway. He retired in 1997 after 36 years of service. He enjoyed the outdoors and spending time boating and fishing with friends and family. Sonny was well liked by many and always had a smile on his face for all.

Survivors include his wife Donna, two sons Richard (Dorrie) Johnson of Gilson, Ill., and Bill Johnson of Galesburg, Ill., two daughters Jo Lynn (Greg) Lewis of East Galesburg, Ill., and Kathryn (Scott) Ward of Galesburg, Ill. One step-daughter Kim Schnitzer (Jennifer Barnard) of Hannibal, Mo. One step-son Travis (Nikki) Schnitzer of La Grange, Mo. Three sisters Margaret (Mike) Rice of Pontiac, Mo., Kathy (Andy) Neil of Sun City Center, FL, and Diane Johnson of Galesburg, Ill. Three brothers Walter E. Johnson of Oquawka, Ill., Lawrence (Marilee) Johnson of Knoxville, Ill, and Dean (Debi) Johnson of Galesburg, Ill. Five grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and five great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents Walter and Merle Johnson and wife Evelyn.

A memorial will be set at a later date.

Donations may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in honor of “Team Sonny”.