James Thomas Johnson passed away on August 10 at Hospice of Anderson after a long, brave struggle with Alpha One Deficiency Disease. It is a genetic disease which he inherited from both parents. Jim had his 74th birthday on May 29th which is remarkable because people with this disease usually die before they reach 60.

He and his life partner, Judy Doyle, enjoyed travel, nature, spending time with friends and family, playing music, attending the theater and going to concerts. He was a loyal friend, a hard worker, a positive thinker, creative, helpful, kind and generous. Contradancers and old-time musicians will remember him as a vibrant, gifted guitar player. His story telling, quick wit and engaging sense of humor endeared him to many.

He was a loving, playful, adopted grandfather to Chris, Kevin, Ali and Nathan Breneman. His sister, Karen Durnil, her husband Larry and their offspring, Natalie and Matt, were very important to Jim and he treasured time spent with them.

In 1991, Jim formed a partnership with Judy Doyle and established Strings N' Things Violin Shop. Jim loved to work with stringed instruments and with their customers. Nathan Hilvert, Emily Damerow and Judy will continue operating Strings N' Things. The shop is Jim's legacy, and they want to preserve it and his tradition of satisfying the needs of both students and professionals. Jim will be missed, but they will continue providing the affordable tools and services that he valued and worked so hard to offer.

This Fall there will be a memorial service to celebrate Jim's life. Family and friends may contact Judy Doyle for details.

Please donate to Matthew 25 Ministries or Cincinnati Symphony Youth Orchestras or Hospice of Cincinnati.