James Steven Johnson

James Steven “Steve” Johnson, 81, of Temple Terrace, Florida, passed away on August 20, 2026, surrounded by his family after a year of declining health following a major stroke.

Steve was born on September 25, 1944, in Atlanta, Georgia, to James Richard Johnson and Opal Agatha Kittenger Johnson. He grew up alongside his brother, David Johnson, and sister, Susan Turner.

Steve met Glenda Petrie at Brown High School in Atlanta, where Glenda was a majorette and Steve played in the band. One of his favorite ways to flirt with her was hiding her batons. Their relationship later grew into a college romance at the University of Georgia, where Steve confidently told Glenda that one day she would marry him. He was right. Steve and Glenda were married on June 10, 1967, and shared more than 59 years together.

From 1967 to 1974, Steve served his country in the United States Air Force, attaining the rank of Captain during the Vietnam War era. His service took his family around the world. Steve, Glenda and their three oldest daughters lived in several places during those years, including the Philippines.

After his military service, Steve worked as an accountant for the City of Tampa and later for Estek. He had an exceptional mind for numbers and also prepared taxes during his career.

Steve was a longtime member of First Baptist Church of Temple Terrace, where he was active for more than 50 years. He sang in the church choir, taught Sunday school to seventh-grade girls and volunteered in the church nursery. His faith, his church, and his service to others remained important parts of his life.

Above all, Steve was a devoted husband, father and brother. Family was at the center of his life. He and Glenda raised six daughters, and he took great joy in watching his family grow. To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “Big Daddy.” He loved being surrounded by his family and was a steady and dependable presence in their lives.

Steve is survived by his beloved wife, Glenda Petrie Johnson; his six daughters, Lisa Estes, Debbie Johnson, Pam VanVliet, Stacy Andrews, Stephanie Hayes, and Shana Mitchell Kessler; his brother, David Johnson; his sister, Susan Turner; 15 grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren.

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Richard Johnson and Opal Agatha Kittenger Johnson.

Steve will be remembered for his devotion to his wife and family, his intelligence, his faith, his service to his country and the love he gave so freely throughout his life. He leaves behind a family who will deeply miss their husband, father, brother, and Big Daddy.

Visitation will be held Saturday August 29th 11 am-12 pm followed by a Celebration of Life at 12 pm at Loyless Funeral Home 5310 Land O’ Lakes Blvd, Land O’ Lakes, Fl 34639.

There will be a reception following the service at the home of Shana Mitchell Kessler 19813 Wellington Manor Blvd, Lutz, Fl 33548.

A Private burial for the family will be held on Monday, August 31 at 12:30 with Military honors at Florida National Cemetery, Bushnell, FL.