James Joseph "Jimmy" Johnson Jr.

Johnson James Joseph Johnson Jr. "Jimmy", of Philadelphia, entered into the company of his Lord on September 2nd 2020, at the age of 93. Jimmy was the loving husband of the late Joan C. (nee Beaver) for 64 wonderful years. Jimmy and Joan would go onto have five children while living in Mayfair; James J. Johnson III (Joan), Bobby Johnson (Celeste), Greg "Chet" Johnson (Sandy), Geralyn Fattore (Patrick) and Christine DeMarco (Drew). Jimmy leaves behind an impressive legacy in his 19 grandchildren; Lauren, Danielle, Jason, Jeremy, Stacie, Jesse, Isabella, Sheena, Ashley, Lacey, Taylor, Austin, Dakota, Christian, Cameron, Cole, Dominique, Giovanna, and Antonio, as well as 19 great-grandchildren; Ella, Cruz, Julian, Azlynn, Jaxon, Reese, Wyatt, Aspen, Savannah, Declan, Ronan, Lochlan, Flynn, Slate, Bliss, Atlas, Shiloh, Neve, Crew, and one on the way. Jimmy was born in the Kensington area of Philadelphia to James and Sarah in 1927. He would go on to attend North Catholic High School until his Sophomore year, at which point he enlisted in the United States Navy and prepared for his Pacific deployment in World War II at the age of 16. Jimmy was a grateful veteran, and would often wear his WWII Veteran's hat proudly. After returning home to Philadelphia, Jimmy began to carve out his way in a new world. He met the love of his life, Joan C. Beaver in Kensington at the Lighthouse Dance, and they were married in 1949. They would go on to share many wonderful years together filled by their growing families, and faith. After returning from the war, Jimmy joined the Philadelphia Police force and went on to become a Police Detective. Jimmy served the city of Philadelphia for 15 years and enjoyed the brotherhood from his peers. Jimmy also served his community through volunteering and coaching, specifically with the Holmesburg Boy's Football Club. Jimmy began a career in the music industry during the Big Band Era, and in later years formed a trio, "The Jimmy Johnson Trio." He would enjoy performing as a night club singer for many years, helping out at various FOP and Parish charity events, singing at family weddings, and singing for nursing home residents later in life. Jimmy was a naturally talented entertainer. Jimmy was always into fitness, specifically running and playing golf. Jimmy was a man of strong faith and prayer. He was always involved with his Church, and helped for many years as a Eucharistic Minister at St. Matthew Roman Catholic Church. Jimmy started each day in silent prayer next to his bed, and ended every phone call with "God bless you." Relatives and friends are invited to Jimmy's Life Celebration Viewing on Wednesday September 9th at St. Matthew Catholic Church (3000 Cottman Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19149) from 8:45-10:15AM, with a Mass of Christian Burial to Follow at 10:30AM; interment at Our Lady of Grace Cemetery.