James Clayton "JJ" Johnson

James Clayton "JJ" Johnson, 81, of Bessemer City, after an extended illness found eternal rest on Saturday, August 23, 2025, surrounded by his loving family and friends.

James was born on August 29, 1943, in Gaston County, to the late Adam Clayton Johnson and Eva Oates Johnson.

James is survived by his loving wife, Sue Willis Johnson, of 60 years. James was extremely proud of his two daughters, Wendy Johnson Sosebee and husband Todd, Nikki Johnson Braswell and husband Johnnie. Devoted grandfather to Phillip Chase Clayton Costner, and Allyson Costner Spencer and husband Dustin; great-grandchildren, Phillip Jett Costner, Emery Rayne Costner and Londyn McKenzie Spencer; special granddog Barron; brother-in-law, Barry Willis and wife Linda; special friends Danny and Debbie Edwards, a.k.a. (Jack and Diane), Tammy Ivester and Shirley Benjamin

In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by sisters, Martha "Toots" Cantrell and Margaret Jackson; special brother-in-law, Randy Willis.

James was known for his witty sense of humor. He loved the Lord and never missed an opportunity to witness and pray with others. He was known for giving everyone a second chance and never met a stranger. He even made a lifelong friend by receiving a wrong phone call. He found immense joy in the warmth of family and friends.

He loved gospel music, bass fishing with his buddy Fred Wray, baseball and coaching men's softball winning three consecutive championship seasons.

A former member of the Bessemer City Lions Club, Bessemer City Rescue Squad, Bessemer City Recreation Department, American Red Cross and NC Veterans Council. Lifelong member of First Wesleyan Church of Bessemer City, where he served on the Board of Trustees and attended Ragan Wesleyan Church.

James was known for his extraordinary memory, vast knowledge, and profound wisdom even up until the very end. As a highly respected businessman, James was often called upon to expedite resolutions through his infinite network of colleagues. James was a dedicated and loyal advocate working with NC Senator Jim Broyhill on Veterans Affairs. He was one of five executive leaders appointed by President Lyndon Johnson for the US Postal Service, Postal Commission Board of Bessemer City.

Graduate of The NC Center for Applied Textile Technology, Belmont, serving as a liaison between the college and local textile industries. Member of the Southern Textile Association and was the recipient of numerous honors and awards.

James had an extensive career in yarn and textile manufacturing. He worked as a textile consultant in the Piedmont and surrounding areas until retiring as Plant Manager of Kings Point Knitting Mills, Bessemer City.

His journey was one of courage and resilience facing numerous medical challenges with unwavering grace and strength. He leaves behind a legacy to the many lives he touched. Our love for him will continue to live on in our hearts forever.

The family will receive friends from 12-12:45 pm Thursday, August 28, 2025, at First Wesleyan Church of Bessemer City in the Family Life Center 510 East Alabama Avenue Bessemer City, the funeral will follow at 1:00 pm. officiated by Pastor John Harper, Dr. Matt Mitchell, Pastor Zach Bardsley. The burial will be at Westview Gardens, Bessemer City.

The West Chapel of Greene Funeral Service located at 216 Archie Whitesides Road Gastonia is honored to be serving the Johnson family.

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