James M Johnson

Born December 8, 1965 in the state of Virginia to June D Johnson and Elmo C Johnson.

James was diagnosed with a brain tumor on 01/01/2019. James was victorious for one year and nine days, the glioblastoma (brain tumor) took him from us on 1/10/2020. James passed away at his home, in the loving embrace of his wife and beside his best friend of 46 years, Glenn White.

One of his greatest passions in life was his community. James gave back, not only by paying more than his fair share in taxes, but also by volunteering with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office (PCSO) as a Reserve Sheriff Deputy. He obtained the rank of Reserve Sergeant and assisted with PCSO reserve training, including teaching at MVRT (training academy).

As a PCSO reserve, James literally put his life on the line for his fellow colleagues and his community. When it came to patience, James must have been blessed with a lot more than the rest. Maitel; his wife of 5+ years admits having become a better human being by being married to James. He gave her the best years of his life and in return, she gave him the last best years of his.

In addition to a wonderful marriage and a fur baby named Dolly (a want-a-be K-9), James also served with the Polk County Search & Rescue, and at the same time was a CERT board member. Later, due to work commitments he had to cut back, but still volunteered in Marion County with the Project ABLE Board of Directors, as secretary & president until his cancer treatments took precedence.

James will be remembered for his ethics, positivity, understanding, and his determination to live the best life God gave him. James worked in the logistics field over 30 years and at times motivated himself with the quote; “Every problem, is an opportunity.” A career in sales is not easy. At times his wife Mattie repeated that quote as she ran out of his home office. He will be remembered by his colleagues and clients, some of whom he never met in person but respected and trusted him based on his reputation alone. James was a dedicated employee with CAI Logistics International until the very end.

James is survived by his loving wife Maitel “Mattie” Johnson, mother June Johnson, sister Debbie Johnson, and brother Elmo Clark Johnson III.

James was preceded in death by his father Elmo C Johnson.

A memorial service wil be held February 2, 2020 at Family life church in West Salem. In Lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the James & Maitel Johnson Trust, or to Family Life Church; in memory of Jim Johnson.

The James & Maitel Johnson Trust
PO Box 5969
Salem, OR 97304

Funeral arrangements and memorial services were entrusted to Family Life Church of West Salem and Johnson Funeral Home of Salem Oregon (no relation).