Jimmy Johnson

Jimmy Welch Johnson, 80, of Wilson, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 7, 2025.

A funeral service will be held on Thursday, July 10 at 11:00 AM at Wilson Memorial Service, followed by visitation. Interment will take place at Maplewood Cemetery.

Jimmy proudly served his country in the United States Army from November 30, 1966 to August 30, 1969. He carried that same sense of dedication throughout his life and career.

He is survived by his loving wife, Lillie Benton Johnson; daughters, Lori Johnson of Wilson and Lisa Johnson of Edgewater, Florida; step-son, Bryan Radford and wife, Elizabeth, of Wilson; step-granddaughter, Mary Griffin Radford; and his beloved West Highland Terrier, Lucy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, George and Vinnie Weeks Johnson and his sister, Nancy Johnson Langdon.

Known affectionately as “the candy man,” Jimmy delighted in handing out peppermint candies to everyone who visited. He will be remembered for his strong work ethic and attention to detail, honed over a long career as a Manufacturing Engineer from 1969 until his retirement in 2011. Jimmy also took great pride in maintaining a beautiful yard and had a lifelong love for rock and roll music.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Wilbanks Christian Church, 6128 NC 42, Elm City, NC 27822.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr. N, Wilson; (252) 237-7171; www.wilsonmemorialservice.com