James Elroy Johnson Sr.

James Elroy Johnson, Sr., age 86, of Independence, passed away Friday, September 5, 2025, at Centerpoint Medical Center in Independence. He was born November 27, 1938, in Mesa, Arizona, a son of the late James H., Jr. and Clea (Sherman) Johnson. James proudly served his country in the United States Air Force. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3rd Ward in Independence. James was active in Scouts of America and the Honorable Tribe of Mic-O-Say. A true craftsman at heart, he found joy and peace in woodworking and took great pride in caning chairs – restoring beauty and function to treasured pieces with patience and care. His workshop was a place of creativity, dedication and tradition where each project was approached with skill and heart. His legacy lives on in the furniture he lovingly made, the stories shared and the many lives he touched with generosity and warmth. He is survived by his wife, Barbara of the home; son, Gary Johnson (Vicki) of Kansas City, Missouri; grandchildren, Meagan, Brianna (Tyler), Zachary, Tristan (Natasha), Chase, Christa (Seth), Logan and Sydney; eleven great-grandchildren with one on the way; brother, Dwayne Johnson (Carol) of Denton, Texas; sister, Marva Hutchison of Versailles, Missouri and many other relatives and friends. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his children, Melinda Johnson, Brenda Johnson and James Johnson, Jr. Funeral services will be held at 2:00 p.m., Friday, September 12th, at the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home in Versailles. Graveside services and interment with full military honors will follow in the Glensted Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m., Friday, at the funeral home. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Missionaries at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints 3rd Ward. Arrangements are under the direction and care of the Kidwell-Garber Funeral Home of Versailles.