Ronnell "James" Johnson

"There is no higher honor than human service. To work for the common good is the greatest deed." - Woodrow Wilson
Ronnell "James" Johnson, 25, of Van Buren, passed away on November 30, 2025, after a heartbreaking and tragic accident.
James was born on July 6, 2000, to his mother, Lanesta, in Minneapolis, Minnesota. James was a graduate of Winona Senior High School. From there, he proudly joined the United States Army to serve his country in the 1st platoon raiders. He served from 2019 to 2021. After his medical discharge, James began working as security at Marion General Hospital. He attended Indiana Law Enforcement Academy where he graduated in the 31st Tier II Course.
James was the gentlest of giants. He was the purest soul and had the best sense of humor. He was always the quietest person in a room but, make no mistake, it never failed that you could feel his strong presence as he watched over his loved ones no matter the location.
He was a treasured family member and friend. James is survived by his wife, Kaylene Johnson, and their son, Adonis Johnson. Other surviving family members include his mother, Lanesta White; mother-in-law, Amber Cox (Travis Dillon); father-in-law, Brad Cox; sisters, Lanessa White and Malia Johnson; brothers, Malik Johnson and Gionni White; sister-in-law, Callie Hale (Mason Hale); brother-in-law, Seth Cox; nephews, Kevon Masters, Ke'Marion Masters, and Carter Hale; and other special friends from both his time in the military and those at Marion General Health.
James is preceded in death by his grandmother, Catharina Keller, or as her grandkids called her, MeMe. James will also be joining his and Kaylene's multiple beautiful babies that they lost way too soon.
The family will receive visitors from 12:00 noon to 2:00 pm on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Brookhaven Wesleyan Church, 2960 E. 38th St., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Ronnell's life will begin at 2:00 pm with Pastor Jeffrey Horsman officiating. His family will have a private burial for him at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Brian Sharp Memorial Foundation for Cops & Kids, P.O. Box 111, Marion, IN 46952.
Arrangements are entrusted to Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN 46952.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.