MESA, Arizona — James W. “JJ” Johnson, 66, Mesa, Arizona, was lifted to his heavenly home on Jan. 6, 2020 after a valiant battle with cancer. His devotion for his wife and family and his belief in God supported him in his struggle and ultimately gave him peace.
James was born in Sikeston, Missouri, on Nov. 24, 1953 to Jessie and Alfreda (Sitzes) Johnson. He married Alta Schaneberg, Oct. 7, 1989 in Ashton.
After working at Swift Meat Packing in Rochelle for many years he became a diesel mechanic by trade and CDL driver for most of his working career. Bringing the most satisfaction was the position as Fleet Superintendent for Kaney Transportation in Rockford. While in Arizona not only working for a construction company, he had the honor and pleasure of helping many people purchase their homes representing them as their real estate agent.
James is survived by his wife, Alta; brothers, Carl (Earlene) Johnson of Rochelle, Jessie (Janice) Johnson of Rochelle, Ray Johnson of Poplar Bluff, Missouri; sisters, Shirley Fields of Rochelle, Faye Knutson of Rockford, and Patsy (Lanning) Nicoloff of Rochelle.
He is preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Vernon Gale (Jean) Johnson of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, Allen Wayne (baby) and sisters, Thelma (James) Grace of Benton, Kentucky, Bernitta (Clyde) Patterson of Rochelle and Dianna (Mark) Kime, Menominee, Michigan.
James will be dearly missed by his wife and loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with our Creator. There will be no funeral services at this time. There is a Go Fund Me page established to help support Alta at http://bit.ly/AltaJohnson
Tempe Mortuary, Tempe, Arizona, assisted with the arrangements.