James R. Johns

James Russell Johns, 72, of Wilmore, left his earthly home on Monday, July 27, 2026. He was born in Wilmore, Kentucky on September 27, 1953 to the late James William and Marcella Delaney Johns. James was a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corps, being honorably discharged as a Sergeant after more than five years of service as a Field Radio Operator with part of that time spent in Vietnam. He was awarded the National Defense Service Medal, the Meritorious Mast, and the Rifle Sharp Shooter Badge during his time serving our country. James then returned to Jessamine County where he enjoyed farming and working for the City of Wilmore. In his spare time, he liked being outdoors hunting deer and fishing for catfish and crappie.

James will be remembered by his daughters Stephanie Smith, husband Marcus and Jamie Goldman, husband Nathan, as well as Michelle Smith, whom he considered his adopted daughter. He was a faithful grandfather to Demi Johns, Tyler Smith, Cory Smith, Owen Abshear, Daphne Gartner, Aurora Gooch, and Alice Smith, and a great-grandfather of three. He leaves wonderful childhood memories with his sisters Linda Woolums, Judy Pigg, Sheila Davis, Debbie Duncan, and Marcie Underwood. He will also be deeply missed by his special friend Dan Corbitt. In addition to his parents, James joins his brother George Johns in eternal rest.

Cremation was chosen, and James will be laid to rest with Military Honors in Camp Nelson National Cemetery at a later date, which will be posted here once arrangements are finalized. “Taps: Day is done, gone the sun, from the lake, from the hill, from the sky. All is well, safely rest, God is nigh. Thanks and praise for our days, ‘neath the sun, ‘neath the stars, ‘neath the sky. As we go, this we know, God is nigh.” Arrangements are entrusted to Hager & Cundiff Funeral Home, and we extend our deepest sympathy to the Johns family and friends.