Jim Ray Johnson's Obituary
Jimmy Ray Johnson was born in Cameron, TX. on July 19, 1940 to the union of Lillie B. Lee and George Johnson. Jim transitioned this life on November 27, 2017 at his home in Auburn WA.
The Johnson family moved to Tacoma, WA., where Jim attended Stanley Elementary, Mc Carver Jr. High, and Stadium High School. He was an outstanding athlete and loved playing basketball. He helped lead the Stadium basketball team to the State Championship in 1959.
After high school, Jim married Charlene Hinds. They were blessed with two wonderful children; Sean Ray Johnson and Tracy Antoinetta (Johnson) Jackson.
Mr. Johnson’s work career included Hygrade Meat Packing Co., Foreman Clarke Clothing Store, Sears, Wilson House of Leather, Grantree Furniture and Levitz Furniture Stores. Jim soon discovered his passion for sales and excelled in the position as salesman. He received many accommodations and awards for his salesmanship. He was top salesman of the month/year for many months and several years. Jim was called, “Tweed” or “Boss Tweed” by his friends, because he was always impeccably dressed in the workplace. Mr. Johnson retired from Levitz in 2003 after suffering a stroke on his way to work.
From a very young age, Jim had a love for fishing, which continued into his later years. He also loved to sing and performed in nightclubs in the Tacoma-Seattle area with a group of his childhood friends.
Jimmy Ray was preceded in death by his parents, Lillie B. Lee and George Johnson: two brothers: Arthur K. Johnson and Christopher R. Johnson.
He leaves to cherish his precious memories: his children, Sean Ray Johnson of Kent, WA and Tracy Antoinetta (Johnson) Jackson of Edmonds, WA; one brother: Willie Johnson (Maxine) Tacoma, WA; three sisters: Georgia James (Charles) Tacoma, WA; Kathleen Banks (Barry) Tacoma, WA; Jeraldeen Marsh (Jerry) Hollywood, FL; Grandchildren: Anthony Nabors, Andrew Johnson, Mitchell Webb Jr., Tyanna Webb, Joshua Haywood, three great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
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