James Larry Johnson, passed away peacefully on May 9, 2025, at the age of 82, surrounded by his loving family. Born on May 31, 1942, in Houston County, Alabama, Larry was the son of the late William Olis Johnson and Johnnie Lucille Roland Johnson. He grew up alongside his brother, the late William Royce Johnson, in the close-knit community of Cottonwood/Ardilla. In 1960, Larry graduated from Cottonwood High School, where he formed many lifelong friendships and laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
For 59 wonderful years, Larry was the beloved husband of Patricia Nell Johnson. Their enduring love was a testament to commitment and partnership, and together they raised a loving family. Larry was a devoted father to his sons, Greg (Kathy) Johnson of Taylor, Keith (Anna) Johnson of Ashford, and Tracey (Cecilia) Johnson of Opelika. He took immense joy in his role as a grandfather to David (Diana), Kaye Laso (Paul), Jamie Cruse (Brandon), Kody, Graison, Ryan, Jack, and Emma. His legacy continued to flourish with the arrival of his great-grandchildren, Colton, Trey, Peighton, Isabella, Leylah, Aubriella, Austin, Reagan, Alex, June, and Michaela. Larry will also be missed by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Larry’s professional life was marked by his entrepreneurial spirit and community service. For 25 years, he was the proud owner of Cottonwood Auto Parts, a local business that thrived under his leadership. Following this venture, Larry dedicated 10 years of service as a postal worker at the Dothan Post Office, where his warm smile and friendly demeanor were a welcome presence.
A man of action and compassion, Larry was a co-founder of Cottonwood Rescue, serving as a volunteer firefighter and EMT in both Cottonwood and Rehobeth. His selfless service to his community earned him the respect and admiration of his peers, and his actions inspired many to follow in his footsteps.
Larry leaned heavily on his faith. He was a member of Hickory Grove Baptist Church. His interests outside of work and service were simple yet profound. An avid fisherman, Larry found peace and contentment at the water’s edge. He was also a farmer and a gardener, taking pride in nurturing the earth and enjoying the fruits of his labor.
Above all, Larry’s heart belonged to his family. He was a kind and gentle soul, always putting the needs of others before his own. His selfless nature was evident in every aspect of his life and is the legacy that he leaves behind.
Funeral services will be held at 2 PM, Monday, May 12, 2025 from the chapel of Ward Wilson Funeral Home with Reverend Hosea Parker officiating. Burial will follow in Memory Hill Cemetery with Reverend Keith Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends from 1 PM until 2 PM, Monday, May 12, 2025, prior to the service at the funeral home.
Serving as active pallbearers will be David Johnson, Kody Johnson, Paul Laso, Jack Johnson, Ryan Johnson, and Braxton Arnold.
Serving as Honorary Pallbearers will be Graison Johnson, Brandon Cruse, Michael Beavers, and Marvin Peters.
