James "Jim" Johnson

James “Jim” Johnson, 89, of Valdosta, passed away peacefully at home on Tuesday, March 10, 2026. Born on December 17, 1936, in Cypress, Illinois, to Wayne Evert Johnson and Helen Marie Randalls, Jim built a life defined by dedication, skill, and quiet perseverance. He began his working years as a machinist for General Motors in Chicago, attending night school while demonstrating the intelligence and determination that would mark his entire life. He later became a respected construction supervisor, notably with Tom Hutchinson Construction Company. Among his many accomplishments, he played a key role in building the Valdosta Mall in 1981 and contributed his expertise to numerous other landmarks, including the Rainwater Center, Lake Park Elementary School, Lanier County High School, the Moultrie Crime Lab, Norman Park Elementary, Westover Shopping Center, Slidell Mall in Louisiana, and the Houston Mall in Texas.

Even after retiring, Jim’s strong work ethic remained. He took great pleasure in tending his yard and cheerfully completing every “honey-do” task given to him by his devoted wife of 70 years, Joanne. His resourcefulness, integrity, and steady presence earned him the deep respect of all who knew him.

Jim is survived by his loving wife, Joanne Musgrove Johnson of Valdosta; his daughter, Becky Jo Mahoney and her husband Michael of Valdosta; grandchildren Jessie DuBose-Moore and Michael Moore of Lake Park, and Jamie and Greg Price of Wilmington, North Carolina; as well as many great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his brother, William Wayne and Lynn Johnson of Leesburg, Florida, and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his son, Mark Dale Johnson, and his grandson-in-law, Henry DuBose, husband of Jessie.

Jim’s legacy of hard work, family devotion, and quiet strength will be cherished by all who knew him.