James Johnson

James Keith Johnson, age 52 of Northport, Alabama passed away on February 5, 2021 in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Memorial Services will be held on Thursday, February 18, 2021 at Magnolia Chapel North at 4:00 p.m. with Mr. Josh Johnson officiating.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Jewel Richardson Gilbert; grandparents, John Henry Johnson and Etta Oree Johnson.

He is survived by his spouse, Joanna Bell Johnson of Northport, AL.; daughter, Emily Megan Johnson of Columbus, Mississippi; son, Zachary Taylor Johnson(Taylor) of Sapps, AL.; stepsons, Joseph Peyton Beard of Northport, AL., Gavin Levi Beard of Northport, AL.; sister, Jana Johnson Bailey of Pickensville, AL.; brother, Jeffery Thomas Johnson of Aliceville, AL.; and father, John Thomas Johnson of Aliceville, AL.

James Keith Johnson was born on January 5, 1969 in Columbus, Mississippi. He attended school at Pickens Academy. He joined the Navy Seabees after graduating High School. He was in the Navy from 1987 to 1991. He was decorated with numerous awards: Battle “E” Award, National Defense Service Medal, Southwest Asia Service Medal, Qualified Sharpshooter M16A1 Rifle, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Meritorious Commendation Unit, and a Humanitarian Service Medal X. After receiving an honorable discharge from the Navy, he began a position with the Pickens County School System as the Welding Instructor. He continued that position for over 27 years. During this time, he was married to Julisa Johnson and he became the proud father of Zach and Megan Johnson. He loved being a father to his children. Later he married Joanna Johnson, and they began a life together. They had over 4 happy years together. He was a wonderful stepfather to Peyton and Gavin Beard. Keith was a dedicated husband, father, stepfather, brother, Veteran, scout leader and loyal friend to all.