Joshua Johnson Jr.

Joshua Johnson, Jr., lovingly known as "Lil' Jun" in his youth, was born on June 10, 1955, in Little Rock, Arkansas, to the late Joshua Johnson, Sr., and the late Mary Marks. He was the fifth of nine siblings: Emma Williams, Ella Hubbert (late Willie Hubbert), the late Della Grandy (late Donald Grandy), Solomon Marks (Gerna Marks), Diann Foster (Donald Foster), Bennie Craft (Wayne Craft), Cedric Marks (Valerie Marks), and the late Rickey Marks (Deborah Marks).
Joshua's spiritual journey began early. At the tender age of eight, he accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior at First Missionary Baptist Church in Little Rock, Arkansas. His faith would remain a cornerstone of his life.
A proud alumnus of Central High School in Little Rock, Joshua graduated in 1973 and went on to attend the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB). From 1974 to 1980, he pursued and graduated with a bachelor's degree in criminal justice while making lifelong friends and memories. In 1977, Joshua was initiated into the Tau Sigma Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, an affiliation that brought him much pride and a sense of brotherhood throughout his life.
On June 23, 1990, Joshua married the love of his life, Shirley L. James, and together they built a beautiful life. Although Shirley preceded him in death on January 30, 2022, their love story continues as they are now reunited in eternal peace.
Joshua dedicated his career to helping others, serving as a youth probation officer with the Texas Youth Commission. After decades of impactful service, he retired in 2011, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship and compassion.
Though his health presented challenges in his later years, Joshua faced each day with strength and resilience. On Friday, January 10, 2025, at 4:44 p.m., his earthly journey came to a close, and he found peace in his heavenly rest.
Joshua leaves behind a family that he cherished deeply: his daughter, JaCoi James Pugh (Corey L. Pugh, Sr.); grandchildren, Kerrington James (14) and Corey L. Pugh, Jr. (4); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. He also leaves behind his Omega Psi Phi brothers and the loving congregation of Bethlehem Baptist Church in Mansfield, Texas.
Joshua's legacy of love, faith, and dedication to family will forever be remembered by all who knew him.