James Johnson

James "Jim" Edward Johnson Jr., 57, of Springfield, MO went home to be with his Lord on Wednesday, July 8, 2015. He was born on March 3,1958 in Wichita, KS to James Edward Johnson Sr. and Linda Faye (Heard) Johnson. Jim was raised in Wichita and later moved to Missouri where he met Kathy. They returned to Wichita and were married in 1978. They started a family with two daughters, Pam and Kelli, then completed their family with the adoption of an older daughter, Kristi. Jim moved his family back to Missouri in 1987, and continued his career in automotive sales and his love for dirt track racing. In 1993, Jim and Kathy opened their own used car dealership and became very well known in Springfield and the surrounding area. In 2004, another special addition was added; Winston, a Shepard/lab mix was Jim's best buddy. Jim enjoyed spending time with his family and pets. He also enjoyed being a Dad and Granpa, either by being ornery and instigating, or being serious as he taught lessons, gave quizzes, and passionately shared his faith in Jesus Christ. Jim truly, madly, deeply loved and was proud of his wife of 36 years, Kathy; his 3 daughters, Pam (Bryan) Fields, Kelli (Josh) Rifenburg, Kristi Johnson (Russell Gideon) all of Springfield, MO. His 9 Grandchildren; Shayne, Kara, Amanda, Nathaniel, Aaliyah, Jaymen, Noah James, Levi, Jackson Edward and 4 Great Grandchildren, who will miss him immensely. He will also be missed by his parents Jim and Pat Johnson of Clever, MO, and Linda Johnson of Wichita, KS. His brother; Mark (Pat) Johnson of Houston, TX; and his 3 sisters; Christa Pizzuti and Jodie Williams both of Wichita, KS and Sarita (Mike) Burk of Marionville, MO. As well as several cousins, nieces, nephews and numerous other family and friends including long time special friends, Karen Bloomer and Hanan Tate. A memorial service will be held Tuesday, July 14, 2015 - 6:30 p.m. at Graceway Baptist Church; 5010 S Farm Road 135 Springfield, MO 65810 (corner of Golden and Weaver).