Jessie James Johnson

Jessie James Johnson Sr. was born to Robert Johnson and Annie Bell Whittenburg on September 10, 1951 in Bristow, OK. 

Jessie grew up attending Bristow Public Schools. At an early age, he felt the call to serve his country and enlisted in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. After his time in the service, he attended business school in Oklahoma City, OK. Jessie graduated and moved back to Bristow, OK where he was a member of New Hope Baptist Church. Several years later, he moved to Claremore, OK. where his love for Christ led him to First United Methodist Church. 

Jessie loved rodeos, his favorite event was bull riding. When he wasn’t attending rodeos, you could find him practicing martial arts. Jessie’s proudest achievement was his 8th Degree black belt. He was also proud to be an American and loved his country dearly. He didn’t mind sharing stories of his military days or showing off his flag collection. Anyone who knows Jessie will say that he’s a very generous man and would give you a double portion of what you needed. 

The Lord called Jessie home on February 21, 2023 at the age of 71. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed. He is preceded in death by his mother, Annie Bell Whittenburg; brothers, Lafayette Johnson, Robert James Johnson, and Ivan Johnson.

Jessie is survived by his son, Jessie James Johnson Jr.; sister, Jessie Toombs; brothers, Arthur George and Frank Johnson; grandchildren, Lamar Riddick, Kymari Johnson, Nicholas Johnson, and Kalyn Johnson.