James L. Johnson

James (Jim) L. Johnson, 82, of St. Mary’s, Georgia, passed away at his home Monday, March 16, 2026, surrounded by his family. He was born January 28, 1944, in Ottawa, Kansas to the late Junior Felix Johnson and Catherine Dora McCollum Johnson.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his two brothers: Ronnie Johnson and John E. Johnson.

He is survived by his wife: Yetive Gowen Johnson of 19 years, St. Mary’s; daughter: Jennifer Benstock (Brian); granddaughters: Ella and Halle Benstock; stepchildren: Terra Ziolkowski (Joe) and Terrance Grooms (Ariel); and grandchildren: Thomas and Amelia Ziolkowski and Gowen and Laney Grooms.

Jim graduated from Ottawa High School, Ottawa, KS in 1962. After high school, he moved to Lawrence, KS and began work for Lawrence Paper Company. He continued working there while attending the University of Kansas where he graduated with a business degree in 1974. His career took him to Georgia, Texas and New Mexico.

Jim learned early to do things himself. He spent years working on his cars, taking care of his yard and loved every minute of it. He was a man of few words with an amazing sense of humor and quick one-liners you had to listen for. Jim had a big heart and loved his family deeply.

Memorialization will be by cremation. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

The family wishes to thank Center Well Home Health and Hospice of the Golden Isles for the care they gave Jim.

Condolences may be expressed by signing the guest registry at www.shepardrobersonfh.com. Shepard-Roberson Funeral Home, 526 Oakwood Street, Folkston, Georgia 31537 is honored to serve the Johnson Family.