James Burge (J.B.) Johnson Jr., 98, passed away peacefully on September 14,2026, surrounded by his family. Born on November 30, 1927, in Emory, Arkansas, J.B. grew up in Cave City, Arkansas, with a strong work ethic and a deep love for the Lord. After a brief stint in the Army during WWII, J.B. worked as an automobile mechanic and later taught the same at the VoTech Schools in both Batesville and Searcy, Arkansas. J.B. was known for always helping others, loving to fish, his gentle spirit, and for serving his Lord.
J.B. is survived by his children, Donald Ray (May) of Batesville, AR and Brenda Carol (Bill) of Heber Springs, AR; one brother, Harry Truman of Parkville, MO; four grandsons, James (Shelley) of Batesville, AR, Jason (Katina) of Heber Springs, AR, Aaron (Emily) of Fort Smith, AR and Jeff (Letha) of Conway, AR; twelve great-grandchildren; and five great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his wife of 68 years, Mary Katherine Johnson; his parents, James B. Johnson and Minnie Pearl Johnson; four sisters, Pearlene, Nina, Ann Ella and Glenna; and three brothers, Tommy Wayne, Hiram, and Norman.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, September 17, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at the Qualls Batesville Funeral Service Chapel in Batesville with Jeff Johnson officiating. Burial will follow at the Oaklawn Cemetery in Batesville with arrangements by Qualls Funeral Homes.
A visitation will be held Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until service time at the funeral home.
