Jim Johnson

(From Parker Mortuary)

Theodore Roosevelt “Jim” Johnson, age 88, Joplin, passed away on Wednesday, March 17, 2021 at Freeman West Hospital.

Jim was born June 18, 1932 in Joplin, son of the late Theodore R. and Willeta (England) Johnson. 

He attended Joplin Schools, and served in the United States Army where he was stationed in Korea. He worked for some time in auto detailing at several locations, and weekends at the Sands Motel and Golden Door. He then worked for S.W. Bell as an air conditioning specialist for 35 years before retiring on February 8, 1995.

 

Jim was an active member and Deacon of Unity Missionary Baptist Church. He also enjoyed his years working with his Masonic brothers as a member of the Myrtle Lodge # 149 FM & AM, York Rite Bodies, Scottish Rite Bodies, Consistory #7 of Kansas City, Missouri, and Uhkfi Shrine Temple # 203, Joplin.

Jim was always helping with his children’s sporting activities over the years and was very fond of his hot rods. He built a shop to accommodate his passion for working on old cars. He painted, rebuilt engines, and worked on the interiors of many cars over the years. He was also known for his fishing abilities, fishing in many tournaments over the years.

In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by his wife, Ella Rea Johnson; two sons, Bobby Joe Mingo, and Gary A. “Cat” Johnson.

Survivors include two sons, Larry D. Johnson and Teddy R. Johnson (Barbara) both of Joplin; several grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Funeral service will be Tuesday, March 23, 2021 at 10:00 a.m. in Forest Park Baptist Church with Pastor Michael Reed, Jr. and Pastor Willie Rogers, Jr. officiating, and a Masonic Service at the church. Interment will follow in Ozark Memorial Park Cemetery with full Military Honors, and Gary Walker, Richard Fowler, Michael Reed, Sr., David Reed, Maddie Johnson, Phoenix Johnson, Leon Powell, and David Baker serving as pallbearers.

The family will receive friends at Parker Mortuary on Monday from 6:00 to 7:00 p.m.