James W Johnson

James Wallace Johnson, son of the late Rev. James Johnson and the late Carrie Johnson was born in Knoxville, Tennessee on April 25, 1947. James declared his faith in God at an early age and joined the church. He was a member of Mt Olive Baptist Church for many years.

During his youth, James attended school in New York, New Jersey and in Knoxville, graduating from Austin High School, later earning Certificates in writing and as a copy editor. Jim was bright and innovative. He had a way with words and dreamed of becoming a writer. While in high school, he was given the opportunity to apprentice with The Knoxville News Sentinel, a job he enjoyed immensely. 

Over the years, Jim was employed by K-TRANS and the City of Knoxville. He was Co-Owner (with his wife Gwendolyn) of Hollywood Studio: Photography and Insurance Agency. 

James was joined in Holy Matrimony to Gwendolyn Campbell, on May 28, 1983. They became partners in life and later in business. Both James and Gwen dreamed of building a life that allowed them to capitalize on their shared love for the arts and the humanities: She in art and he in writing, together, they dreamed of painting and writing their own stories about life through the lens of African American artists. 

Jim was an unofficial “Community activist” believing fully in the idea of “helping your neighbor” and tried to live his life as a reflection of that moral compass. The legacy he leaves for friends and family is one of caring for and about others.          

James Wallace Johnson leaves to rejoice his home going wife Gwendolyn, daughter Nicole Johnson Tyler Harper (Derrick), son Semaj Johnson (Jessica), sisters Judy Davis, Naomi Johnson, sisters-in-law Dr. Jacqueline Comas, Frajan Campbell, Cliftena Carter, brother in law Paul Campbell (Tammie), His beloved grandchildren and great grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, his devoted family and friends who loved and supported him,  Rev, Jesse Williams, Sr., Christopher Dixon, James Hunter, James Harper, Ruth Bailey, Vickey Carry, Mary Lockett, the Giles Family, Mercedes McAdoo, Annette Lyons and a host of family and friends. 

Acknowledgement

We sincerely appreciate the expressions of love and kindness extended to us during this time of bereavement. May God richly bless and keep each of you. 

The Family of James Wallace Johnson

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