James W Johnson's Obituary
James W. Johnson, 92, of Columbia, MO, passed away on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, at his home. Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2025, at 12:00 PM at the St. Luke United Methodist Church. Visitation will be from 11-12PM Saturday at the church. Services will be livestreamed at 12:00 PM at https://www.facebook.com/htmayfuneralhome.
James Wendol Johnson was born on February 1, 1933, to Vollie and Nellie Johnson in Callaway County, in the township of Callwood. He excelled in school and was honored as valedictorian of his ninth-grade class.
On August 4, 1955, James met the love of his life, Stella Louise Hickem. He later joined the United States Army, proudly serving a period of time in Germany, and was honorably discharged on April 8, 1961.
Following his schooling, James began his career at the University of Missouri in Columbia. He later worked for Exchange National Bank as supervisor of building and grounds. Over the years, the bank changed names several times, but James remained steady and adaptable, continually improving as new systems were introduced.
James was a devoted servant of his faith and served as a Deacon at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church alongside his father-in-law, Elijah Hickem, and his brother-in-law, Eddie Hickem. Together, they formed a powerful trio of prayer and spiritual leadership.
Known as a man of discipline, James believed rules were to be followed, but he balanced this with patience, love, and understanding. He was respected by all who knew him. A colleague once described him as “a gentle man and a gentleman.” He was deeply loved by his family—children, grandchildren, great- and great-great-grandchildren—as well as nieces, nephews, and countless “bonus children” who, though not related by blood, were embraced fully into his circle of love.
James leaves to cherish his memory his children: James Johnson Jr., Archie Brooks (Eleanor), and Kathy Sims; grandchildren: Bryant Thompson, Barron Thompson, Becky Maney, and Brent Thompson; along with a host of great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Stella Johnson; his daughter, Sandra Johnson; his parents; and all of his siblings. His brothers, Richard and Eugene Johnson, and his sisters, Genevieve Buckner, Lena Pearl Kelly, and Mildred Baker, joyfully welcomed him home on the morning of August 13, 2025.
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