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To honor and celebrate the life of James A. Johnson, and to extend our sincerest condolences to his family and friends on the occasion of his passing, January 29, 2014.
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WHEREAS, James A. Johnson was born in Dolorosa, Mississippi, on October 14, 1927; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson led a life filled with service to his country and community. He was a World War II veteran, having served in the Air Force, and also worked as a military police officer at the Lockbourne Air Force Base in the 1950s and 1960s; and
WHEREAS, in 1981, Mr. Johnson founded Columbus’ first block watch, dedicating himself to improving the quality of life in his neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson also founded and served as President of the Driving Park Civic Association for decades until his passing. He was informally known as the “Mayor” of the Driving Park neighborhood; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson’s civic engagement was unwavering and unparalleled. He received numerous awards in recognition of his many achievements and was honored by both President Clinton and President Obama; and
WHEREAS, throughout his work on behalf of his community, Mr. Johnson remained a tireless advocate for veterans and was inducted into the Ohio Veterans' Hall of Fame in 2008; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson was preceded in death by his wife, Klara, in 2009; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson is survived by his children, Anton, Cassandra, and James; seven grandchildren; two great-grandchildren; and numerous other family and friends; and
WHEREAS, Mr. Johnson’s selfless contributions to our city and nation are innumerable, and his presence will be sorely missed by all; now, therefore
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF COLUMBUS:
That this Council does hereby honor and recognize an outstanding public servant and civic leader, James A. Johnson, with the utmost esteem on the occasion of his passing, January 29, 2014.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that a copy of the Resolution be presented to James A. Johnson’s family wi...
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