James Allan “Jimmy” Johnson Jr.

James Allan Johnson (71), of Crestview, Florida, passed away on December 12, 2023 surrounded by family.

James, known to many as “Pops”, “Deddy”, “Coach Johnson”, or “Jimmy”, was born to Gladys and James Johnson Sr., on April 12, 1952, in Miami, Florida. James married his beloved wife Shelby Johnson on August 21, 1974, with which he created a beautiful family of 17 children.

James held many titles in his life, from military veteran to truck driving, paraprofessional to football coach, groundskeeper to Go-Kart fixer, flagman, and more. You name it, he was doing it. His ultimate and most prideful title was being a father. This meant more to him than any monetary job he performed, hence the 17 children. When he wasn’t working, you could find him in his go kart shop or trailer, getting the karts race ready down to the finest details. He enjoyed planning the most ridiculous events that would have you agitated and excited all in one. His favorite past times were kickball games with crazy pitches and race weekends, Christmas in Tennessee and family holiday gatherings.

James was a devoted father, husband and teacher. He always taught us that family is the most important thing and supported each of us through our many accomplishments and difficulties in our lives. He was a selfless man who would do anything for anyone.

James is survived by his children Kevin Johnson, Jimmy Johnson, Brandy Henderson, Jamie Johnson, Timothy Johnson, Bambi Johnson, Jeremy Johnson, Patricia Johnson, Joshua Johnson, Robert Johnson, Jonathan Johnson, Brian Johnson, Michael Johnson, Shelby Voigt, Jennifer Johnson, Zackery Johnson, and Austin Johnson along with 47 grandchildren and 2 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his sisters Patricia Holt and Sherry Ritchie. James was preceded in death by his wife Shelby Johnson, mother Gladys, father James Johnson Sr., sister Alana, brother Ricky Johnson, and granddaughter Sirella Johnson.

There will be a Celebration of Life at 39 E. Burnis Rd, Crestview, Florida on December 23, 2023 at 4pm.