Obituary of Jesse L. Johnson
Jesse L. Johnson, age 82, late of Plainfield, and formerly of Chicago in the Auburn Gresham neighborhood, passed away unexpectedly at home on Monday, March 19, 2018, following a long and courageous battle with COPD.
Born February 16, 1936 in Heth, Arkansas, he was the son of Oscar and Willie Mildred (nee Starks) Johnson. He was a proud veteran of the United States Army, and had a long and successful career in the insurance and real estate industries.
Jesse was a devoted husband, a loving father, grandfather and great-grandfather, and a fond brother and uncle. A kind and gentle man, he was a hard worker and a great provider who encouraged his children to study hard and be the best they could be. He was always helpful to his siblings, and was a proud big brother to his younger brothers and sisters. Jesse believed people deserved the benefit of the doubt and a second chance. He believed in telling it how it is, and among his favorite sayings was, “It is what it is.” He loved to fish, watch cowboy and western movies, and share his knowledge of history and nature. He will always be remembered for having logical answers to life’s complicated questions.
Surviving are his children, Robert Motley, Terrie Motley, Pamela Motley, Elizabeth Motley, Tamara (Dan) Johnson-Paradies, Eric (Jocelyn) Johnson, Colby Thomas, Marvin Slater, Xavier Thomas, and Kyneate Thomas; many dear grandchildren and great-grandchildren; three sisters, Mildred Johnson, Bertha Richards, and Delores Adams; two brothers, Oscar Johnson and Michael Johnson; many nieces and nephews; and a host of friends.
He was preceded by his beloved wife, Lizzie Johnson (November 1, 1997); one son, Timothy Johnson (September 4, 2016); his parents; and two sisters, Emma Lowe and Mia Penovich; and one brother, Earl Johnson.
A Memorial Gathering for all family and friends will be held Saturday, March 31, 2018 from 6:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. at the DeKalb Elks Lodge, 209 S. Annie Glidden Road, DeKalb, IL 60115. At 7:00 p.m., Military Honors will be accorded by the United States Army.
Fred C. Dames Funeral Home has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements. For more information, please call (815) 741-5500 or visit his Memorial Tribute at www.fredcdames.com
