James D. "Jim" Johnson

James D. “Jim” Johnson, 82, passed away on January 21, 2021 in Blue Springs, MO.

Jim was born on April 5, 1938 in Keytesville, MO to Alonzo Lee “Lonnie” Johnson and Alberta May McDonald Johnson. He grew up in the Independence area, attending school in the intercity district. He served in the United States Air Force and worked for over 40 years as a machinist, welder, and lead man for Allis Chalmers. His affiliations included the Local 1958 Steelworkers of America Union from January 30, 1964 – April 28, 2000; lifetime member and past trustee of the FOE Local 385 & 3717, and member of the Masonic Lodge #76, the American Legion, the Moose Lodge, and many others.

Jim had many loves throughout his life. He enjoyed deer hunting, fabricating combines, and taking his restored 1950 Ford to classic car shows. Trips to the Lake of the Ozarks were always an adventure. He loved being on the water – boating and water-skiing were his favorites. He even did some slalom-skiing a time or two! He could be described as a pistol; he was stubborn but made friends easily.

Jim loved the country life. In his younger days he even rode broncs in rodeos. He had a farm in his early adult life in Collins, MO where he kept horses. In later years he took a shine to Siamese cats (all stubborn, like him!). He possessed the gift of music, and he was happiest when picking away at his Fender guitar and singing a country song. He’d play in bands, impromptu jam sessions, or just anywhere they’d allow him! His vocals bore an uncanny resemblance to Hank Williams, Sr. He was an expert in the two-step, and it was very important to him that he teach his daughter everything he knew!

Jim was preceded in death by his parents Lonnie Lee & Alberta May Johnson, and his sister Roberta Cook of Independence, MO.

He is survived by his daughter and dedicated advocate Jaime Moore (husband Kevin) of Independence; five grandchildren Taylor “Tater-Tot” Windsor of Humble, TX, Destiny “Star”, Dalton Faith of Independence, Emily “Bebe” Sickles (husband Sam) of Independence, and Jacob “Jake” Moore (wife Kelsey) of Bonduel, WI; three great-grandchildren Isaiah James, Isaac, and Nathan Windsor, and two on the way; and two sisters Elizabeth Ann Silkwood of Chillicothe and Wanda Leonard of Garden City. He was also known as uncle “Bo” to many nieces and nephews.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, January 26, 2021, from 6-8pm, with a funeral service to follow at 10am Wednesday, January 27, 2021, both at Carson-Speaks Chapel, 1501 W. Lexington Ave., Independence. Due to county restrictions, seating is limited. Interment to follow in Mount Washington Cemetery.

Online condolences may be left at www.speakschapel.com (Arr: Carson-Speaks Chapel 816-252-7900)