James Lafayette Johnson

April 11, 1939 – August 30, 2026

James Lafayette Johnson, 87, of Magnolia, MS passed away on Sunday, August 30, 2026. He was born in Tylertown, MS on April 11, 1939, to the late Casey C and Maude Marie Johnson. Along with his parents he is also preceded in death by his wife, Sonya C Johnson; and sons Casey “C.E.” Johnson and Billy Joe Johnson.

Left to cherish his memory are his children, Tammy Kelley, Chasity Jordan, and Jamie Johnson (Ginger); grandchildren, Kye Kelley (Alisa), Lacey Kelley, Tashina Thompson (Joseph), Brandi Martin, Mariea Chandler, Christopher Johnson, Payton Jordan, James Mercier, and Hallie Johnson; 21 great grandchildren; 4 great great grandchildren; along with a host of nieces, nephews, friends, and loving family.

Mr. Johnson proudly attended Tylertown High School home of the Blue Devil and graduated in 1957; in the same year he became a member of the Mississippi National Guard where he received military honors as a Rifle M1 Marksman and Expert Gunner. Throughout his life he enjoyed gardening, taking care of his cows, hunting, tending to his yard, and spending time with his family especially his grandchildren. He will be remembered by his gentle kind spirit, his servant’s heart, and making friends with everyone he met. He was always helping who he could and when asked how he was doing would always say, “I do”.no matter the situation.

A visitation will be held for Mr. Johnson on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, at Hartman-Hughes Funeral Home from 10:30 until service time at 12:00 PM with Bro. Wade Barnes officiating. Interment will follow at Rushing Cemetery. Hartman-Hughes is in charge of the arrangements.

The family would like to thank Compassus Hospice for the care they took of Mr. Johnson.

Pallbearers will be Kye Kelley, Payton Jordan, Kenny Robichaux, Nathan Robichuax, Tommy Gatlin, and Albert May.