James Vandegrift Johnson Jr. ’49

A five-year search for the source of recurrent skin tumors finally found total metastasis, too late to save Jim. He had time to wind up his affairs, bravely, meticulous as ever. He died Dec. 12, 1997, in Savannah.

Son of a Presbyterian clergyman ('03), he majored in economics and social institutions. He sang with the Chapel Choir and Glee Club, held offices in the Presbyterian Society, was v.p. of Prospect Club, and played 150-pound football. Vets of the dining halls remember his impeccable handling of the top management job.

At Princeton Theological Seminary he achieved a B.D. in 1952 and did mid-career work in 1980; Clinton College bestowed the doctorate. Pastorates included Pensacola, Natchez, Laurel, Atlanta, Thomaston, and Skidaway Island, Ga. The keystone -- 22 years in Columbus, Ga., where he helped build a splendid organ, and where his name graces a new building. In it hangs his portrait, with a gentle smile.

Boards: Executive Board and General Assembly, Presbyterian Church, U.S.; Columbia Seminary; Synods of Mississippi and Southeast; Presbytery of SW Georgia; Kiwanis; and Columbus Symphony -- music was never far.

To Lobenta, his wife of 45 years, children James and Jane, twin grandsons Christopher and James, and his room-brothers from 327 Foulke and the Seminary, we extend our deep sympathies.

The Class of 1949