James Johnson

Classic cars are about experience, style, exclusivity, and craftsmanship, not speed and efficiency.

James Sylvester Johnson, 84, of Gray went to be with the Lord and his family on December 4, 2024 at Select Specialty Hospital. 

He was born on December 25, 1939 at home in Andalusia, Alabama to the late Chester and Mary Johnson. James was a graduate of Florida State University where he received his B.S. in accounting. He went to work for Rose Printing in Tallahassee, Florida and was General Manager from 1974 to 1984 before relocating to Kingsport, TN. He served as General Manager of Donihe Graphics until 1993 and then worked as the Vice President of Operations at Southeastern Color Graphics until his retirement in 2002. James enjoyed classic cars especially his 1953 Studebaker. He was a loving father, grandfather, and friend who will be greatly missed by all who knew him. 

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his brother, Robert Johnson.

Survivors include his daughter, Olivia Garrett and husband Brian; son, Eric Johnson and wife Angie; grandchildren, Brandi Jones and husband Aaron, Courtney Woods and husband Gale, Amanda Carrigan and husband Erik, Jamie Mullins and husband Chris; great-grandchildren, Cooper and Noraa Jones, and Finn Carrigan; along with a host of extended family and friends. 

Per his wishes no formal services will be conducted. 

The family would like to thank the physical therapy department and nurses at Select Specialty Hospital for their loving care. 

Carter-Trent Funeral Home is serving the Johnson family.