James W. Johnson

James W. Johnson, 77, of McElree Road, Washington, died Thursday, December 2, 2010, in the Washington Hospital, following a three-week battle with pulmonary fibrosis, surrounded by his loving family. He was born December 22, 1932, in Washington, a son of John Bertrum and Ruby Jackson Johnson. Mr. Johnson was a graduate of Trinity High School. On February 10, 1953, he entered the Army and served in the 164th Infantry Regiment. He was discharged on February 9, 1955, with a rank of Sergeant. Mr. Johnson was a member of Liberty United Methodist Church for 63 years. He worked as a union bricklayer at Jessop Steel for 20 years and also was a self-employed masonry contractor. Mr. Johnson enjoyed hunting and golfing, was an avid Pirates and Steelers fan, and loved tennis. He was a member of Free and Accepted Masons # 164 in Washington and the National Rifle Association. His children, grandchildren and his wife were his life and he loved them all dearly. On May 24, 1952, he married his high school sweetheart, Caroline Wiltrout, who survives. Also surviving are a son, Barry (Sharon) Johnson of Washington; two daughters, Robin (Bradley) Neel of Beaver Falls and Dana (Greg) Lyle of South Franklin; a brother, Donald L. Johnson of Washington; seven grandchildren, Brooke Johnson, Sarah Schreyer, Jim Johnson, Meredith Neel, Jordan Neel, Charles Lyle II, and Sydney Lyle; and a great-grandson, Jake Schreyer. Friends will be received Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m. and Sunday from 1 to 4 and 6 to 9 p.m., in William G. Neal Funeral Homes, Ltd., 925 Allison Avenue, Washington, where services will be held at 1 p.m., Monday, December 6th, with Rev. Lois Swestyn and Pastor Bradley Neel co-officiating. Burial will follow in Washington Cemetery. Military rites will be accorded graveside by American Legion Edwin Scott Linton Post 175. Memorial contributions may be made to Liberty United Methodist Church, 1330 Banetown Road, Washington, PA 15301.