James R. “Jim” Johnson, age 85, of Plymouth, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family on Tuesday, May 6, 2025.
Jim was born on July 10, 1939, at his grandparents’ home on Lake Avenue in Plymouth, Indiana, to Walter and Cecile (Long) Johnson. A proud graduate of Lincoln High School, Class of 1959, Jim was an avid athlete who participated in football, basketball, and track. He later continued his love of sports by playing in the City League basketball circuit.
On July 17, 1960, Jim married the love of his life, Barbara “Babs” Peregrine, at Plymouth Church of the Brethren, where he remained a lifelong and devoted member.
Jim served his country as a Sergeant in the United States Army, completing six months of active duty followed by six years in the Army Reserves. His strong sense of duty and honor carried through every aspect of his life.
He worked as a machinist for Indiana Tool/ITAMCO for 42 years, including 24 years alongside his oldest son, Buster. Known for his integrity, skill, and generosity, Jim earned the respect of everyone who knew him. The Neidig family fittingly described him as “the epitome of a craftsman” and “the backbone of the company’s precision.”
Jim had a deep love for his hometown’s history, spending countless hours scrapbooking articles from The Plymouth Pilot dating back to the 1880s. Many of these were donated to the Marshall County Historical Museum.
He cherished spending time with his children and grandchildren, particularly in the tradition of gathering and cracking black walnuts—a family activity spanning over 40 years. Babs would bake with them, and the resulting treats were always appreciated gifts.
An avid cyclist, Jim rode his bicycle daily, logging over 28,000 miles between Indiana home and Sebring, Florida home, from 2007 to 2014. He continued riding for eight more years, well into his 80s. He also enjoyed jogging, completing several Blueberry Stomp races, and taking long daily walks.
In 1990, Jim and Babs began traveling the world together, visiting over 35 countries. He had a special fondness for Russia, Egypt, Japan, and especially China, where the couple had hosted a foreign exchange student, Lingun Shen, in 2000. They remained close and attended Shen’s wedding in Shanghai in 2008, maintaining their relationship to this day.
Above all, Jim’s greatest joy was his family. A devoted husband of nearly 65 years, he was a loving father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He treasured camping trips, park visits, and vacations with his growing family, from Disney World to Caribbean cruises and Hawaiian adventures. He never missed a school or sporting event involving his grandchildren.
Jim is survived by his beloved wife, Babs; their children: James “Buster” Johnson and his children Jessica and Christopher; Bruce (Susan) Johnson and their children Nathan (Destiny) and Paul; Jacquelynn (Duane) Culp and their children Katelynn (Alexander) Clemons and Brittany, and great-grandson Maverick Clemons; and Brent Johnson. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Marilee Johnson and Helen Johnson, and several nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Walter and Cecile; sisters Beverly (Sam) Anderson and Sandy (Edward) Woodard; brothers Charles, Ronnie, and Jack Johnson; and one nephew and three nieces.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Memorial contributions may be made to:
Plymouth Church of the Brethren, 1130 North Michigan Street, Plymouth, IN 46563
Center for Hospice Care, 112 South Center Street, Plymouth, IN 46563
