James Russell Johnson

James Russell Johnson, 76, of Mobile, AL formerly of Gulfport, MS passed away peacefully on Sunday April 28, 2013.
Mr. Johnson was born March 18, 1937 in Bardwell, KY to the late Russell E. Johnson and Audry Josephine Johnson. In addition to his parents, Mr. Johnson was preceded in death by his wife of 52 years, Peggy Ann Johnson; and two sisters, Gilda J. Johnson and Charldean J. Wood.
Mr. Johnson joined the service in 1954 and served his country honorably for 22 years. His bravery during the Vietnam War earned him many awards, including a Distinguished Service Order and the Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leave cluster.
Upon retiring from the United States Air Force, Mr. Johnson went into business for himself for several years, ultimately deciding to sell the business and join the Biloxi Veterans Administration. He gave another 18 years of civil service, finally and officially retiring in 2004.
Mr. Johnson is survived by his two sons, Timothy N. Johnson and Titus D. Johnson; one daughter, Leticia J. Newman; two granddaughters, Macy Leigh Johnson and Lauren Alden Newman; one grandson, Bradley Oneal Johnson; two brothers, Johnnie C. Johnson and Jody T. Johnson; and several nieces and nephews.
The visitation will be Friday, May 3, 2013 from 9:00 a.m. until 10:00 a.m. at RIEMANN FAMILY FUNERAL HOME, 274 Beauvoir Road, Biloxi. The funeral service will follow at 10:00 a.m. in the funeral home chapel, with burial to follow at 11:00 a.m. at Biloxi National Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers the family prefers memorial contributions be made to the American Red Cross. (www.arc.org)