Bev Johnson

1932 - 2015

James Beverly Johnson, beloved husband of Virginia Johnson, passed away in Barnwell on Friday, August 7, 2015 at the age of 83 years. He was at home, surrounded by those who loved him as his long battle with cancer ended. He will be sorely missed.

Relatives and friends were invited to meet with the family at Southland Funeral Chapel, 5006 - 48 Avenue, Taber on Wednesday, August 12, 2015 between 7:00 P.M. and 8:00 P.M. and also at the church prior to the funeral service on Thursday, August 13, 2015 between 10:00 A.M. and 10:40 A.M.

The Funeral Service was held at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Barnwell on Thursday, August 13, 2015 at 11:00 A.M. Burial followed at the Barnwell Cemetery.

He is survived by his wife Virginia Johnson, daughter-in-law Shauri Johnson, his children Camilla (Brian/Flip) Phillips, Valerie (Ray) Goodwin, Marilee (Wilford/Jr) Ching, Larry (Melanie) Johnson, Larita (Jeff) Barfuss, Darla (Scott) Brandley as well as thirty grandchildren and two great grandchildren. He is also survived by six siblings Grant Johnson, Molly McBride, Kelvin (Arta) Johnson, Sharon Jonsson, Preston (Maurine) Johnson and Betty (Ralph) Sabey.

He was predeceased by his parents, his son James Delyle Johnson, his sister Nadiene Nielsen, sister-in-law Elmoyne Johnson and brothers-in-law Lawrence Nielsen, Keith McBride and Austin Jonsson.

Bev was born March 14, 1932 to Miles and Bessie Johnson in Cardston. Fifth child of eight, he was raised in Barnwell amongst his siblings and many cousins. His school years were spent playing basketball, inventing, working, and more working. After graduating from WR Myers he served an LDS mission to Australia. These were some of his favorite years and he still has many dear friends there. After his mission he met and married Virginia Smith, the love of his life. They raised seven children together in Barnwell, except for a short stint in Edmonton while Bev was attending university to become a teacher. He spent twenty five years teaching science/math and being the vice-principal and principal, touching many lives as they passed through Barnwell School doors. He was instrumental in bringing water and sewer to Barnwell and spent many years as the administrator of the Water and Sewer. Astronomy was one of his passions as well as building and designing. The only thing he loved more than working hard and serving others, was his family. He was very proud of all his children and grandchildren and now great grandchildren.