



1944
-
2023

Terry James "T J" Johnson, 78, of Phoenix, Arizona, passed away on August 16, 2023. He was born on December 20, 1944, in Bonne Terre, Missouri. Terry, known as T J to his friends and loved ones, was a friendly and outgoing individual who had a knack for making everyone laugh. He was a pleasure to be around, and his presence will be deeply missed.
T J was married twice in his lifetime. His first wife, Ruthann with whom he had three children named Larry, Lisa, and Jimmy, separated from him for reasons unknown. He then married Sharon and had three more children: Justin, Brian, and Rachael, who blessed T J with two grandchildren, making him a proud grandfather.
T J was preceded in death by his father, Forest Johnson (Lyle), his mother, Edna maxine, Branon Johnson Womble ,and his siblings Donald Johnson (Donny), Lynda Johnson Priest McCorkle (Petie), and Terry J. Johnson (T J). T J was the last of the three siblings to pass away . He will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew him.
After graduating from high school, T J proudly served in the military, joining the Army before transitioning to the Air Force. He dedicated 20 years of his life to the Air Force, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant E-6. T J's military service was marked by his unwavering commitment and dedication to his country.
Following his military career, T J worked at Bob's Auto Parts, starting as a parts man and later becoming a driver until his well-deserved retirement. His years of service both in the military and in his civilian career exemplified his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence.
T J found solace and spirituality within himself, not adhering to any specific place of worship. He believed in the power of self-reflection and personal connection.
In his free time, T J had three beloved hobbies. First, he loved playing pool and engaging in lively conversations with everyone he met. Second, he enjoyed fishing and hunting, finding peace and excitement in the great outdoors. Lastly, he took great pleasure in riding his motorcycle, and it was his lifelong dream to combine these three passions. Just before his 69th birthday, T J embarked on a three-month motorcycle trip across the USA with a special friend, Bruce Mills fulfilling his dream and creating unforgettable memories with the people he encountered along the way.
After returning home they moved into a house and continued to ride his motorcycle . When he was unable to ride anymore they decide to get a boat where he started fishing and when that was to much he watched TV and would go and see his family and as his cancer worsened he had passed away he had a good life
A memorial service to honor Terry James Johnson will be held on September 8th from 11:00 am to 11:30 am at the Arizona National Cemetery. The service will include Air Force full honors and a 21-gun salute, paying tribute to T J's military service and his contributions to his country.
Terry James "T J" Johnson will be remembered as a loving family man, a dedicated military veteran, and a friend who could light up any room with his infectious laughter. His spirit will live on in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to have known him.