James William Johnson, III Obituary (1955 - 2016)

James W. Johnson, III, better known to his friends as OJ, 60, of Pecatonica, IL, passed away in his home on Friday, January 8, 2016. Born December 30, 1955 in La Crosse, WI, the son of Mr. and Mrs. James and Norma Johnson. OJ graduated from Forreston High School, Forreston, IL and embarked on a life which led him on a journey down many paths and he worked at a variety of jobs, his last being at Bootie’s Main Tap in Pecatonica. He also worked for the Winnebago County Fair Association in Pecatonica. He was a member of the Pecatonica United Methodist Church, where he was the co-vice-president of the Pecatonica Methodist Men’s Group. He was also a member of the Pecatonica Lions Club. Most importantly, as a recovering alcoholic and addict for over 25 years, he was a proud and active member of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous. OJ never met a stranger-a stranger was simply a friend he had yet to meet. He had the gift of gab and was a very generous friend. He had a love for music, especially the blues, and for children, the elderly and animals. He was proud to be an uncle and godparent. Survivors include his father, James; sisters, Julie (Mike) Jacobson and Jaynellen (Jim) Holloway; nephews, Jaymes and Jayson and niece Angela. He was preceded in death by his mother, Norma and paternal and maternal grandparents. A celebration of OJ’s life will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, May 28, 2016 in Pecatonica United Methodist Church, 528 Washington Street, Pecatonica, IL with Reverend Katie Voigt officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting memorials be given to the Pecatonica United Methodist Men’s Group, PO Box 607, Pecatonica, IL 61063