James Ervin Johnson, Sr. age 81 of Smyrna, passed away Friday December 18, 2015. A native of Rocky Mount, North Carolina he was the son of the late Ervin and Mildred Fuller Johnson. He is also preceded in death by his wife of 42 years; Rita and a son; James Ervin Johnson, Jr.

Mr. Johnson is survived by two sons; William Johnson and his wife Meredith of Alexandria, Virginia, Derek Johnson and his wife Kimberly of Smyrna, Tennessee and four grandchildren; Andrew Johnson, Lauren Johnson, Braxton Johnson and Sydney Johnson. He is also survived by a sister; Norma Watson of Appomattox, Virginia.

Mr. Johnson was employed and retired from Sprint. Prior to living in Chattanooga, Tennessee and attending Christ Church, he was an active member of Emmanuel Episcopal Church in Bristol, Virginia.

Celebration of life service will be held 10:00am Wednesday December 30, 2015 at Emmanuel Episcopal Church with Father Joe Dunagan officiating. The Johnson family request that memorials may be made to Alzheimer's Association.

Condolences and memories for the Johnson family may be sent to www.woodfinchapel.com (615) 459-3254.