Jimmy Ray Johnson

Jimmy Ray Johnson, beloved father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and friend, passed away on October 8, 2025, at the age of 87.

Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at Joyner’s Funeral Home, Wilson. Interment will follow in Evergreen Memorial Park, Wilson. Rev. Ray Wells will officiate.

The family will receive friends Monday evening, October 13, 2025 from 6 – 8 p.m. at Joyner’s Funeral Home, 4100 Raleigh Road Parkway, Wilson.

Born on September 28, 1938, in Wilson County to Aaron Johnson and Alma Price Johnson, Jimmy lived a full and meaningful life. He was a passionate man who loved people, horses, and especially his beloved dogs—most recently, JJ and Jess. Many will remember him fondly from his years of showing quarter horses.

Jimmy, affectionately known as Chief, was also the proud owner of Johnson Industrial Machinery Services, a business that reflected his lifelong dedication and tireless work ethic. He worked hard to provide for his family, and his entrepreneurial spirit remains a cornerstone of his legacy.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Bill and Carlton Johnson.

Jimmy is survived by his children: daughter Angie Fulghum (Will), son Kevin Johnson (Leah), and daughter Lynn Cromer (Jeff); grandchildren: Susan Sasser (Ron), Rachel Ballance (Kevin), Matthew Johnson (Brythe), Kelsey Fulghum, Jackson Cromer (Rachel), and Hannah Shumate (Brett); and nine great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his longtime companion, Carol Fulghum; sister Donna Thorne (James); sisters-in-law Marie and Jackie Johnson; and former wife, Lynda Johnson.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of SECU Hospice House in Smithfield, NC, for their exceptional care and compassion.

Flowers are welcome, or donations in Jimmy’s memory may be made to SECU Hospice House, 426 Hospital Road, Smithfield, North Carolina 27577 or Free Will Baptist Children’s Home, PO Box 249, Middlesex, North Carolina 27577.

Jimmy’s memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him. His legacy of love, hard work, and unwavering dedication to family and friends will be cherished forever.

Condolences directed to Joyner’s Funeral Home and Crematory at www.joyners.net.