Obituary of James Matthew Johnson

James Matthew Johnson known to many as "Skinner or Chook" was (63) born on September 17,1950 in Farmville, Virginia to the late Rosa E. Johnson and Walter Wiley. After enduring a long battle with cancer the Lord gave him rest on Friday, May 23, 2014 at his residence in Matthews, North Carolina. At an early age James was baptized and joined the Midway Baptist Church where his membership remained over the years. He attended Luther P. Jackson High School and graduated with the class of 1970. He entered into holy matrimony with the late Diane Patterson and from that union two children were born. He was employed by Craddock and Terry for over 20 years. He served as a Correctional Officer at Deep Meadow Correctional Center. He was also employed by The Farmville Herald until his transition to North Carolina. Baseball and basketball were two of his favorite sports, although his favorite hobby was yard work. Skinner touched the lives of many that knew him. He loved to laugh and make others laugh as well. He had a nickname for just about everyone. I'm sure for the many of you who knew him you have at least one Skinner story to reflect on and laugh about. He will be greatly missed. Skinner leaves to cherish his memories: two children, James Maurice Johnson (Peanut) and Tori Johnson-Walker (Mook); son-in-law, Quincy (Kimba); three brothers, Carlton Reid, Kenny Brown (Head), and Earl Brown (Plum); two uncles, Hayes Wiley and Leroy Wiley; three aunts, Omega Trent, Annie Collins, and Bessie May Wise; five grandchildren, Jasmine (Jeek), Daneisha (Neesh), Jaynee' (Nae-Nae), Khalil (Doug), Asha (Toots); one nephew, Travis Brown; three nieces, Tanya, Siborn, and DeAundra Brown; a devoted cousin, Geneva (Sister) extended family, a devoted companion, Cynthia McNeal- Smith; children, Sherri, Evelyn, and Willie; grandchildren, Kevin, Bobby, Cynthia (little one) Brian, Ashley, Alexia, Able, and Nora and a host of cousins and friends.