James Travis Johnson

James “Travis” Johnson passed away October 12, 2025 at the age of 87. He was born July 17, 1938 to the late Bernard and Eloise Johnson.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 61 years, Mary Lou Johnson; his in-laws, Willie and Ruth Dorough and son-in-law, Steve Anderson; sisters-in-law, Vonne Sanders and Sue Graben.

Travis dedicated over 35 years as a general division engineer with Norfolk Southern, managing critical track and surface operations across the Eastern United States. His expertise and leadership not only ensured safe travels for countless passengers and freight but also shaped the careers of those who worked alongside him. A proud graduate of the University of Georgia in 1960, Travis earned his degree in forestry with honors. His heart always held a special place for the Georgia Bulldogs, and he was known among his friends and family for his unwavering support of his alma mater.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Travis was a character who lived life to the fullest. He had a storytelling gift that brought friends and family together, captivating them with tales that often made them laugh and sometimes brought them to tears. A country boy at heart, he cherished returning to his hometown to fish in tranquil ponds, where the serenity of nature accompanied his fondest reflections.

Travis was perhaps most memorable for his deep love for his family. He took joy in planning annual beach trips to cherished destinations such as Santa Rosa, Miramar Beach, Jekyll Island, and Destin, Florida. These gatherings became treasured family traditions, where countless sun-kissed memories were made amid the sound of waves and laughter. He embraced life’s moments, always the first to reach out on a birthday, ensuring that those he loved felt appreciated and valued.

His interests extended into the great outdoors, where he found happiness bird hunting in North Carolina and perfecting his barbecue skills. Travis enjoyed sharing meals with family and friends, and each gathering was a testament to his thoughtfulness and generosity.

In 2017, he bought a big print Bible which became a source of daily comfort and guidance. The well-worn pages of his Bible reflected the deep connection he had with his faith, showing that he cherished its wisdom more than anything new. This love for scripture underscored his role as a deacon at Elkdale Baptist Church, where he served with integrity and devotion.

He is survived by his daughters, Lisa Anderson, Leslie (Charlie) Skelton, LuAnn (Ray) Roberts, Allison (Dean) Smith; extended family, Amy Hale, Lisa Bamberg and Cody Elliott; his very loving caregivers, Tajinae White, Takonderia Jones and Nese Burton; grandchildren, Courtney (Jason) Ellison, Will (Amanda) Anderson, Kelly (Jet) Anderson, Katy (John Alan) Olinger, Kent Skelton, Meredith (Michael) Hill and Cole Smith; eight great-grandchildren, Clay Ellison, Ella Ellison, Brantley Anderson, Weston Anderson, Caroline Anderson, Dale Olinger, Georgia OIinger, Kensley Hill and Kyser Hill.

Funeral services will be Thursday, October 16, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. at Elkdale Baptist Church with Rev. Matthew Jacobs officiating and Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home of Selma directing. Visitation will be Wednesday evening from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Selma. He will be laid to rest at Harmony Memorial Park in Lanett, Alabama on Saturday, October 18, 2025 at 11:00 A.M. Central Time.

Pallbearers will be Jason Ellison, Jet Anderson, Will Anderson, John Alan Olinger, Michael Hill, Cole Smith and Walter Graben.

The family will accept flowers, or you may consider memorial donations to Elkdale Baptist Church, 2221 Elkdale St, Selma, AL 36701 or The Resource Center; 2360 Dr. John T. Moore Street, Orrville, Alabama 36767.

How about them dawgs?!