James Johnson

James Allen Johnson of Portland was born on March 4, 1936, in Montpelier, Indiana, and went to be with his Lord and Savior on Nov. 8, 2021, at age 85 in Parkview Hospital Randallia in Fort Wayne.

He was preceded in death by his parents Mildred and Levi, and brothers Donald and William.

He is survived by his cherished wife Marjorie; brothers Ronald (Sandy) Johnson and Robert (Pamela) Johnson; children Valerie (Phillip) Lines, Douglas (Barbara) Johnson and Kenneth (Lisa) Johnson; seven grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

He retired as a master sergeant from the United States Air Force after 21 years, serving in Alaska, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, Canada, Scotland and England. After retiring from the USAF, he worked as an electronics technician while earning his teaching degree at Ball State University. He brought the use of computers and internet to Jay School Corporation and taught technology at Jay County High School until retiring in 1998.

James furthered his civic service as a member of Lions Club and councilman for Portland City Council. He was a member of Asbury United Methodist Church.

Funeral services will be Friday, Nov. 12, 2021, at 10 a.m. in the Baird-Freeman Funeral Home with Pastor Joe Boggs presiding. Burial will follow with military honors at Gravel Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be Thursday from 3 to 7 p.m.

Memorials can be made to Jay County Heart Fund of Asbury United Methodist Church.

Condolences may be expressed at bairdfreeman.com.