James Kenneth Johnson

James Kenneth Johnson

June 23, 1955 – November 1, 2026

James Kenneth Johnson, 71, of Orange, Texas, passed away on Sunday, November 1, 2026, at his home in Orange.

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2026, at McDonald Memorial Baptist Church in Orange, Texas, with Tommy Anthony officiating. Visitation will be held prior to the service, from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m., at the church.

Born in Orange, Texas, on June 23, 1955, Kenny was the son of Grady Louis Johnson and Ernie Lee "Peggy" Johnson.

Above all else, Kenny was a man who loved God and his family. His faith was not simply something he spoke about but something he lived. He loved reading his Bible and had a remarkable knowledge of Scripture, often recalling stories and lessons with ease. One of his favorite reminders was, "We should always be striving to be like David, a man after God's own heart."

For 47 years, Kenny shared his life with his loving wife, Kathy. Together, they built a life centered on faith, family, and the values they passed down to their children and grandchildren.

Gospel music was a cornerstone of the home in which he raised his family. His children fondly remember hearing his voice carrying down the long hallway to their bedrooms as he sat in his recliner, singing along to the gospel songs he loved. Those familiar hymns and his unmistakable voice became part of the soundtrack of their childhood.

Kenny was a man who could fix just about anything, long before there was a YouTube video to show someone how. Resourceful, hardworking, and always willing to lend a hand, he took pride in solving problems and helping others. Alongside his daughter, Amy, he built a longstanding local business into something they both poured their hearts and countless hours into.

One of Kenny's favorite places was the family's farm in Center, Texas, a treasured piece of family history now in its sixth generation of ownership. He loved spending time there, visiting the two ponds, including one where he built a dock overlooking the water. In 1990, Kenny built the farmhouse himself, creating a gathering place that would become a lasting part of the family's history. Over the years, the home weathered numerous storms and provided shelter for family members during multiple hurricane evacuations. More than just a place of refuge, the farm was where some of his most cherished memories were made. Whether riding the Ranger side-by-side around the property or spending an afternoon fishing with his grandchildren, Kenny treasured their time together and the traditions that would carry on for generations.

While Kenny loved his Dallas Cowboys and Houston Astros, he held a special place in his heart for the LCM Bears. High school football was something he truly loved, and there was nothing quite like the excitement of a Friday night under the lights. But as much as he enjoyed cheering for his favorite teams, nothing compared to watching his own children and grandchildren compete. He was always one of their loudest and proudest supporters, celebrating their accomplishments and cheering them on. When a victory was secured, he loved to proclaim his signature line: "Turn out the lights, the party's over!"

Kenny also had a deep appreciation for classic country music. Merle Haggard, Johnny Cash, George Jones, and Keith Whitley were among his favorites, and their songs were often playing nearby. Family gatherings were rarely complete without a good cup of coffee, conversation, and time spent together. It was often the simplest moments that meant the most to him.

Those who knew Kenny will remember his generosity, work ethic, sense of humor, and, most of all, his selflessness. He was always willing to put the needs of others before his own, whether that meant fixing something that was broken, offering advice, or simply being there when someone needed him.

His greatest legacy will not be measured by the things he built or the work he accomplished but by the faith he lived, the family he loved, and the example he leaves behind. His presence will be deeply missed, but the lessons he taught, the songs he sang, and the love he gave will remain with his family for generations.

Kenny was preceded in death by his parents, Grady Louis Johnson and Ernie Lee "Peggy" Johnson, and his brothers, David Johnson and Steve Johnson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 47 years, Kathy Johnson; his daughter, Amy Peevey, and her husband, Eric, and their children, Will, Greyson, and Rhett; his son, Justin Johnson, and his wife, Jade, and their children, Jackson and Jasper; Matt Johnson and his wife, Shelby; Tim Johnson; his brother, Ronnie Johnson; his sister, Elaine Reeder; and numerous loving nieces, nephews, other family members, and friends.

Serving as pallbearers will be Casey Green, Kyle Green, Will Peevey, Eric Peevey, Greyson Peevey, and Chris Johnson.

Honorary pallbearers will be Jackson Johnson, Jasper Johnson, and Rhett Peevey.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to McDonald Memorial Baptist Church in Orange, Texas, or the American Diabetes Association in Kenny's memory.

Arrangements are under the direction of Claybar Funeral Home in Orange, Texas.