Mr. Willie James Johnson, Sr., of Cordele, Georgia, died Thursday, April 16, 2026, at Crisp Regional Hospital in Cordele, Georgia.

The funeral service will be held on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at 11:00 AM in the chapel of the J. W. Williams Funeral Home in Cordele, Georgia.  The burial will follow at the Mount Olive Church Cemetery in Warwick, Georgia.

Everyone entering the funeral home for visitations or services is required to wear a mask and maintain social distancing.  A mask must be worn throughout the stay.  You must supply your mask.

Willie James Johnson, Sr. was born on October 9, 1953, in the heart of Crisp County, Georgia, to the late Ervin Johnson and the late Eva Mae Brown Johnson. His journey through life began in the public schools of Crisp County, where he laid the foundation for his future endeavors. Driven by a passion for mechanics, Willie furthered his education at Albany Vocational School, specializing in Auto Mechanics.

A devoted believer in Jesus Christ, Willie found spiritual solace and community at Mount Olive Baptist Church and Cross Road Baptist Church. His faith was a guiding light throughout his life, providing strength and comfort in times of need.

Willie had a profound love for the outdoors, finding joy in working on cars and the simple pleasure of cutting grass.  He  retired as a Supervisor for the Department of Transportation after 33 years of loyal service.   His love for nature and mechanical work was more than a hobby; it was a testament to his industrious spirit and appreciation for the world around him.

Family was at the core of Willie's life. He cherished every    moment spent with his loved ones, creating lasting memories that would be treasured for generations. Willie passed away on April 16, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of love and devotion.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Marilyn Jean Williams Johnson; his son, Jamican D. Johnson; and his sisters, Madie Smith and Annie Roundtree.

Willie's memory continues to be cherished by his sons, Willie J. Johnson, Jr. of Cordele, Georgia, and Daryl Sanders (Kimberly) of West Palm Beach, Florida; 13 grandchildren; his sisters,   Emma Hill of Macon, Georgia, Ella Mae Porter of Warner   Robins, Georgia, Mary Alice Sanders of Clearwater, Florida, and Bernice Hestle of Cordele, Georgia; his in-laws, David  Williams, Jr. (Dorothy), Mary Nance, and Roosevelt Smith, all of Cordele, Georgia, and Mary Adkins of Arabi, Georgia; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives, and many  sorrowing friends.