James Johnson

James L. Johnson Jr, 92, of Canfield, passed away Tuesday, November 19, 2019 at St. Elizabeth Health Center Youngstown.

He was born July 25, 1927, in Youngstown, a son of the late James L. and Regina M. (McGowan) Johnson Sr.


James was a 1945 graduate of South High School, and attended Youngstown College. He served his country in the Navy until 1946 and his Tour of Duty was in the Pacific on a sub chaser. James had a 50 year career in the insurance industry, beginning with the Ohio Inspection Bureau. He worked for several regional carriers, became an independent insurance agent retiring from the Austin Agency in 2006. He was active in several men's civic organizations. He was a devout Catholic and founding member of St. Luke Catholic Church. James enjoyed playing golf in area golf leagues, working in his yard, and traveling the world with his wife.

His wife, Joyce (Macy) Johnson, whom he married July 5, 1952, passed away Nov. 11, 2016. James is survived by his daughter, Mary Beth (Larry) Sammartino of North Ridgeville; two sons, James Christopher (Michelle) Johnson of Windham, and Jeffrey (Debbie Dohar) Johnson of Poland; nine grandchildren, Lara (Jeremy) Vainavicz, Emily Johnson, Thomas Johnson, Jeffrey (Kim) Johnson II, Melissa (Fred Mootz) Dill, Renee (Chris) LaBelle, Adam (Colleen) Smith, Ryan (Whitney) Smith, and James Matthew Johnson; and 13 great grandchildren.

He was also preceded in death by two daughters, Mary Catherine Johnson and Cathleen Johnson; a son, Michael Johnson; and his only brother, Charles Johnson.


A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Friday, Nov. 22, 2019 at 11 AM at St. Michael Church in Canfield.

Family and friends may call Friday from 10 to 10:45 AM at the church.


Professional arrangements are being handled by Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel.