Gone too soon, a bright star, a wonderful husband, father, brother, and son; so it is with the passing of Joseph Lee "J.J." Johnson, on Dec. 11, 2007, at St. Mary's Medical Center .

He was the proud son of the late Elder Robert Johnson and Earlene Johnson. He was born in Evansville on Dec. 21, 1957. Joe was educated in the Evansville school system, graduating from Bosse High School in 1976. He was on the wrestling team. Joe was a member of his father's church, the Johnson Temple COGIC. He was employed at Pepsi America for 21 years and was a driver trainer, he loved his job. He never met a stranger and had a million- dollar smile. He loved outdoor activities and his music.

He was preceded in death by his father, Elder Robert Lee Johnson, and sister, Pat ricia Johnson.

He leaves to cherish fond memories his wife of 25 years, Janet Johnson; his three daughters, Terrena Cheaney, Jaala Johnson and Nicole Johnson; his mother, Earlene Johnson; four sisters, Lula (Jake) Parter, Earline (Mike) Tramill, Ruthie (Alvin) Haygan of Henderson, Ky., and Annette (Andrew) Parrish of Princeton, Ind.; six brothers, Robert (Doris) Johnson, Alex (Gwendolyn) Johnson, Ralph (Rena) Johnson, David (Regina) Johnson, Samuel (Penny) Johnson and Tommie (Bridgett) Johnson; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Services were held Saturday, Dec. 15, at Cleaves C.M.E. Church . Burial in Oak Hill Cemetery . Dr. William Greggry officiating, with the pastor of the church, the Rev. Bobby Robinson.

December 13, 2007
You are in our thoughts and prayers. Rick Simmons ( Princeton )

December 13, 2007
For the Family of JJ, I have had the pleasure of knowing JJ through his work We at the Mt. Vernon Parks Department always looked forward to seeing him he gave great service and always with a smile. He will be missed. Ruth Fulwider & Brittlebank Pool Staff ( Mt. Vernon , IN )

December 13, 2007
Our thought's and prayers are with you. Blessings, Tom, Rita & Shawn Southwell; Elsie Southwell ( Evansville , IN )

December 13, 2007
Love and Prayers, The Butler Family ( Evansville , IN )

December 13, 2007
Johnson Family, We are saddened to hear of your loss. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Elder Tim othy & Linda Baker ( Evansville , IN )

December 13, 2007
Our hearts go out to you at this time and in the days ahead. Donut Bank - South ( Evansville , in)

December 13, 2007
Bring you renewed strength and hope for tomorrow. Anytime you need me just call, you have been there for me. Will keep you and your family in my prayers always. Pat ti Gullatte ( Evansville , IN )