Jim Johnson

James Thomas Johnson (Jim) of Ellicott City, February 12, 1932 - June 20, 2026, passed away peacefully at the age of 94. Born in the suburbs of Chicago, Jim was the middle child of Mary Helen and Arthur Johnson. He grew up with two brothers, Arthur Johnson (died in 2015) and Ronald Johnson.

Jim is survived by his five children: Mark Johnson (Joyce), Kathleen Barner (Bob), Michael Johnson (Azlina), Barbara Burdett (Nigel), and Patrick Johnson (Sandra); thirteen loving grandchildren; and eleven adorable great-grandchildren. He cherished every moment spent with family and was well known for the slide shows he lovingly created and shared at family gatherings.

After graduating from the University of Illinois with an engineering degree, Jim served three years in the U.S. Army (through ROTC) before beginning a distinguished engineering career with Westinghouse in Linthicum, Maryland where he worked for 37 years. In retirement, Jim volunteered at BWI Airport, where he enjoyed helping travelers and meeting people from all walks of life.

Jim was a devoted husband and father, a brilliant engineer, a car enthusiast, and a talented photographer. His beautiful love story with his beloved wife Kimi brought him immense joy and happiness. As they often told the story, one weekend in 1957, Jim spotted Kimi across the room at a local square dance. That dance led to a brief courtship, a New Year's Eve proposal, and a marriage that lasted 67 wonderful years.

We have fond memories of Jim loading all five kids into the station wagon and setting off on adventures to Ocean City, Maryland, La Grange Park, Illinois, and destinations across the United States. There was never a drive too long or a road trip too ambitious for Jim. He loved exploring new places and sharing those experiences with his family.

Jim also had a remarkable ability to fix just about anything. Whether it was a car, a household appliance, or some other puzzling problem, his children and grandchildren knew he was the person to call. Few challenges ever managed to stump him.

As Kimi and Jim became empty nesters, they embraced a quieter pace of life. They treasured evenings together, hosted family gatherings, and opened their home to loved ones for both short visits and extended stays. Jim always had a gentle and steady presence at any gathering.

Jim carried a broken heart after Kimi passed away unexpectedly in August 2025. Together again, we picture him seeing her across a crowded dance floor, extending his hand for another square dance, and carrying on the beautiful love story they built together.

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