James Lester Johnson

James Lester Johnson, age 95, of Lumberton, NC passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on February 9, 2026.

James was born in Lumberton in 1930. After growing up in Rowland, he attended Mars Hill College, where he met his future wife, Lois, After graduating from Mars Hill, he continued his education at Wake Forest University. After graduation from Wake Forest, James returned to Rowland to help with the family business, Rowland Motor Company, which he took over and ran successfully until his retirement. He was an active member of Rowland First Baptist Church for over 70 years. In that time, he served as a deacon for several terms and he taught Sunday School for more than 50 years.

James spent much of his life giving back to the people and places that shaped him. He was a member of the Rowland Lion's Club for more than 50 years and was named Lion of the Year during his time as a member. In addition to his dedication to the Rowland community, James supported both Mars Hill College and Wake Forest University, serving as a trustee and then trustee emeritus for both institutions. He was especially proud of being named Alumni of the Year for Mars Hill College in 2002.

James is survived by his wife of 74 years, Lois Johnson, his two sons, Ted (Dianne) and Jerry (Von), his 4 grandchildren, Rebecca (Patrick), Kelsie, Victoria, and Trevor (Emily), two great-grandchildren, William and Charlie, nephew Jim (Luli), nieces Susan, Vicki (George), and Kitty (Greg), and a number of great nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Ira and Opal Johnson, his brother, Walter Lee, his daughter-in-law, Robin, and countless other members of his extended family.

Services will be held on Saturday, February 28 at First Baptist Church Rowland. The family will receive visitors at 1pm in the sanctuary directly followed by a memorial service at 2pm.