Lindsborg, Kan. — James M. (Maitland) Johnson, Jr. passed away Sunday, January 30th, 2022, with Sally, his wife of 59 years and loving caregiver by his side.

Jim, as he preferred to be called, was born in Wichita, Kansas, May 23rd, 1942 to parents James Maitland and Lucille (Sole) Johnson, both of whom preceded him in death.

He is his survived by his wife, Sally (Harmon), whom he married on May 27th, 1962 in Kansas City; their son, Michael Johnson and his wife, Theresa; grandchildren Kayla and Andrew; and a brother, Jim Sole.

He also had two brothers, Larry and Dennis Johnson, who preceded him in death.

Jim grew up in Lindsborg, attending local schools through high school, graduating from the Lindsborg Rural High School on May 26, 1960.

He worked at the Danielson-Johnson Funeral Home in Lindsborg and continued working as he also began his studies at Bethany College with the goal of becoming a teacher.

His education would be interrupted as he was tapped for service in the United States Army, in which he served from August 1966 to June 1969. He earned the rank of Sergeant; served as a drill instructor, and served one tour of duty in Vietnam in the Infantry Division.

With his Service complete, he returned to Lindsborg, worked what he called a series of “odd jobs” while continuing his studies at Bethany College and at the Kansas State Teacher’s College (now known as Emporia State) where he completed his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Education in 1974.

Jim began his educational career teaching English at Salina Central High School and, in 1975, joined the faculty at the Lindsborg Rural High School, where he taught English and Journalism until his retirement due to a medical issue in 1991.

Jim was a loving and supportive husband, father and grandfather who was always there when you needed him. He was well known in the Community, a friend to many, and a proud member of the American Legion in Lindsborg. He enjoyed spending time with his family, his hobby of woodworking, hunting and fishing.

There will be an informal, come-and-go celebration of life from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. in the Community Room (at end of alley facing the street) at Bethany Home Cottages (404 W. State Street) in Lindsborg, Kan. on Saturday, Feb. 12th.

No memorials are requested.