James Johnson Sr.

James Marshall Johnson Sr., affectionately known as "Pop," departed this life peacefully on July 29, 2025, at the age of 96, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family. Born on March 23, 1929, in Canton, Virginia, he was the beloved son of the late George and Mabel Johnson. James dedicated many years of service as a custodian at Yale University, where he worked diligently until his retirement. In his golden years, James fully embraced life-he found joy in spending time with family, cracking jokes, taking drives, traveling, and playing word puzzles. Known for his famous front porch conversations, his playful cheating in solitaire, and his love for westerns like Gunsmoke, The Andy Griffith Show, and the Game Show Network, he was a man who found delight in the simple pleasures of life. He shared countless stories of his childhood in the country and enjoyed watching planes take off at the airport with his youngest son, Seth and Mike Foley, In his later years, he became an enthusiastic basketball fan, cheering on his best friend Paula with humor and pride as if she were sinking game-winning shots herself. In the 1950s, James moved to New Haven, Connecticut, with the love of his life, Eva Randolph, whom he met in Arvonia, Virginia. The two were united in holy matrimony and together raised a beautiful family of nine children: James Marshall, Melvin, Joan, Jean, George Earl, Laush Larry, Leon, Jack, and Seth. James was a faithful member of Community Baptist Church and attended regularly until his health began to decline. He leaves to cherish his memory his loving children: Jean of New Haven, Earl George (Lisa) of Branford, Laush Larry (Joy) of New Haven, Leon (Byrute) of Florida, and Seth (Nancy) Johnson of Georgia and 1 adopted son, Michael Foley. He is also survived by his siblings, Thelma and Andrew (Ruby) of Virginia; his brother-in-law William Ayres of New Haven; 39 grandchildren: 75 great-grandchildren; and a host of great-great-grandchildren. James was a beloved uncle, cousin, and friend to many. He was preceded in death by his parents, George & Mabel Johnson. His devoted wife, Eva Johnson; children James Marshall Jr., Joan Howard, Jack, and Melvin Johnson; and his siblings Audrey Ayres, Corrine Johnson, Floyd, and Earl Johnson.