James "Jim" Johnson, Sr.

James “Jim” Eugene Johnson Sr., age 95, passed away peacefully on February 18, 2026. Family members were by his side.

Born November 14, 1930, in Claremore, Oklahoma, Jim lived a long life of service, hard work and deep devotion to the U.S. Marine Corps. He was raised in Plainview, Arkansas until he was 14 years old and was known as Eugene, or simply Gene. His family then moved to Stockton, California in 1944. Later, they relocated to Caspar, California. When the Korean War began, Jim enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps. He served in Korea during the War. Later, he served a yearlong tour in Vietnam. He rose to the rank of Staff Sergeant. After 13 years of honorable service, he left the Marine Corps. His awards include the Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Vietnam Service Medal, along with Expert Rifle and Expert Pistol qualification badges.

During and following his active-duty service, Jim made his home in Twentynine Palms, California for a total of 60 years. He owned a gas station in town and was an auto mechanic. Later, he became a small engine mechanic for the Marine Corp Air Ground Combat Center at Twentynine Palms, until his retirement. He was an active member of the Marine Corp League in Tennessee, was a life member of the VFW, and was a member of the USMC Tanker Association. He moved to Tennessee in 2017, and became a proud Tennessean, like his father before him. He was recently awarded the Ambassador of Peace Medal from the Republic of Korea, for his service during the Korean War.

Jim believed in keeping busy and learning new things. He read widely on a variety of topics. He was a longtime Ham Radio Operator and participated in several radio clubs in California and Tennessee.

Those who knew Jim will remember a man of discipline, loyalty and humor. He remained a proud Marine throughout his life. He valued family, country and community.

Jim’s legacy is one of dedication to his family, his nation and his fellow Marines. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the many veterans and neighbors whose lives he touched.

A service will be held on Saturday, March 7th, 2026, at 12:00pm from the Chapel of Spann Funeral Home.. Following the service, there will be a graveside service at Union Cemetery.

Survived by:

Sons:

James “Jim” Johnson Jr. (Mai) of San Diego, CA

Richard “Rick” Johnson (Kelli) of Charlotte, TN

Sister:

Sandra Hopper (Lloyd) of Ukiah, CA

Grandchildren:

Shauna (Michael), Amanda (Brandon), Sarah

Bonus Grandson:

David (Arlene)

Great Grandchildren:

Samuel, Madison, Kassidy, Elijah, and Errol

Preceded in death by:

Parents: Frank & Georgia Johnson

Sister: Sue Erickson

Ex-wife: Carolyn Johnson

Arrangements by Spann Funeral Home & Cremation Services (615) 446-1123