John Ray Johnson, born July 25, 1944, passed away on August 7, 2026, in Kalamazoo, Michigan.

John was the son of the late Clifford Willie Johnson and Marjorie Arilla Horne Johnson. He was one of 13 children and grew up with lifelong connections that come from a large family. He carried those ties with him throughout his life and remained deeply connected to the people who knew and loved him best.

He is survived by his sister, Jacquin Dornan, and by in-laws Sandy Johnson and Keith Hutton. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, including Don and Sara Dornan, Connie Scott, David and Sue Dornan, Vickie and Vince Schroen, John and Shelley Fleming, Tim Fleming, Sheila Crowley, Charles Johnson, Christopher and Jill Johnson, Nick Johnson, Patti Hasha, Butch and Lori Johnson, Sherry Johnson, Andy Johnson, Charlene and Mike Nielsen, Gayle Smith Rinker, Nanette Frank, Chip and Lois Platz, Jeff and Janet Ulery, Lari Jo Ess, Patrick Bartell, Bryan and Pam Johnson, Brenda and Brian Fuller, Shannon and Don Roehrig, and Stacey and Todd Brown. He also leaves behind 57 great-nieces and nephews and 56 great-great-nieces and nephews, all of whom were part of the extended family he cherished.

John was preceded in death by his parents, his siblings and in-laws Del Dornan, Richard Johnson, Peggy and Dick Fleming, Charles and Marylou Johnson, Alma Reith, Warren and Mary Johnson, Beverly and Dub Smith, Oliver Buck Johnson, Nancy Bartell, Jeanette Hutton, and Clifford Sparky and Shirley Johnson. He was also preceded in death by nieces and nephews Sue Dornan, Devon Ed Johnson, Tony Kuchinich, Allen Smith, Dawn Johnson, and Tina Johnson. Their memories remained an important part of his family story throughout his life.

John spent his working years in the mobile home, RV, and cargo trailer industry in the area, where he earned respect for his steady work ethic and practical skills. He was known as a cabinet builder, welder, and painter, and he took pride in doing his work well. His hands-on talents and dependable nature served him throughout his career and reflected the character of a man who believed in honest labor and taking care of business.

A longtime resident of Jones, Michigan, John had previously lived in Mottville and the Elkhart area. He found joy in the familiar places and people around him, and he especially loved spending time with family, many friends, and neighbors. He enjoyed fishing, driving slowly around the area, and riding his motor scooter, pastimes that suited his easygoing nature and his appreciation for the world around him. He was the kind of person who valued companionship, conversation, and the comfort of everyday routines.

Following John’s wishes, no formal services will be held with a private family interment at a later date.

John’s family welcomes messages and memories in their online guestbook at www.farrandfuneralhome.com.