James Willard Johnson

James “Willard” Johnson passed away in Shady Grove, LA on Monday, October 24th, 2022, at the age of 83. Willard is predeceased by his loving wife of 57 years, Bonnie Anetha Goins Johnson, his parents, Albert Neely and Lydia Elizabeth Martin Johnson, his siblings Robert L. Johnson, Lucille Johnson Scarbrough, Shirley Johnson Giles, Jay Arlington “Artie” Johnson, Etta Mae Martin, Louise Johnson Bolton, Virleen Johnson Fuselier, Pearlie Johnson Starks and Raymond Johnson. Willard is survived by his four children, Leisha Johnson Pooser (Mark) of Beaumont, TX, Karen Johnson Curtis (Eli) of Dayton, OH, James Philip Johnson (Chaidy) of Lilburn, GA and Melissa Johnson Sanner of Westlake, LA, his eight grandchildren, Brandon, Katryn, David, Jessica, Paxton, Olivia, Autumn and Nikolai, 12 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews. Willard was born in Mora, LA on December 25th, 1938. He graduated from Kisatchie High School upon completion of the 12th grade. He enlisted in the United States Army where he was honorably discharged once fulfilling his orders in 1963. After his time in service, he wore many hats as an automotive mechanic, welder, construction worker, pest control officer as well as evangelist and pastor of several churches throughout the southern states. Willard enjoyed being a prankster, always looking for an opportunity to make people laugh. His hobbies included studying his Bible, fishing, feeding the deer in his yard, sitting on his porch swing and gardening. The visitation will be held at the Provencal United Pentecostal Church, 134 Laurel Street, Provencal, LA on Thursday, October 27th from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. The funeral will be held at the Provencal United Pentecostal Church on Friday, October 28th at 3:00 p.m. with Bro. Paul Grace officiating, burial to follow at Shady Grove Cemetery In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Provencal United Pentecostal Church, 134 Laurel Street, Provencal, LA 71468.