Jimmy Gale Johnson, Jr.

Jimmy Gale Johnson, Jr., 64, was surrounded by his family as he went home to be with his Heavenly Father on Thursday, May 21, 2026.  Although their hearts are broken, their faith remains strong. Jimmy spent many years away from home while serving in the Navy, working in Offshore Drilling, and later with several other companies, always giving 100 percent. In 2019, he returned to Pascagoula, which once again became his home base.

Jimmy grew up in Pascagoula, MS, and was baptized at Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church by Father Patrick Quinn. He attended Pascagoula schools and graduated in 1980. He then attended the University of Southern Mississippi before deciding to pursue a career in the U.S. Military. He joined the Navy in January 1981.

He excelled in his military career as a Saturation Diver and Diving Instructor. As an instructor, he inspired and mentored many young men and women entering the field. He retired in 2003 as a Chief Petty Officer. Throughout his service, he received numerous decorations, medals, badges, and citations, including the Navy and Marine Corps Medal, Navy Good Conduct Medal (5), National Defense Service Medal (2), Enlisted Surface Warfare Insignia, Navy Diver Insignia, Humanitarian Service Medal (2), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3), Navy Expert Rifleman Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Navy Expert Pistol Shot Medal, Navy Battle “E” Ribbon, Navy Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Master Training Specialist Insignia, U.S. Air Force Achievement Medal, NATO Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, and Meritorious Unit Commendation.

After retiring, Jimmy found it difficult to adjust to having so much free time. He began working at Lowe’s, where he never met a stranger and never refused to help a customer or coworker. He also spent countless hours helping family members, neighbors, and even complete strangers. He was truly a jack of all trades—if he didn’t know how to do something, he would research it, learn it, and get it done.

Last year, Jimmy chose to deepen his faith. He attended OCIA classes and was confirmed during the Easter season. He loved to joke with his family that now he was really a Catholic.

Jimmy was loved by his family and friends, and he brought a sense of fun and lightness wherever he went.  Jimmy had a deep love for his dog, Colt, who was his loyal companion and constant shadow.  Jimmy was known for rewarding Colt with an Edd’s Cheeseburger for good behavior.   He also cherished time spent playing cards with his family, especially when he was winning against his sisters, something he took great pride in and teased them about often.

He is survived by his Parents, Elizabeth and Lee Tuck; one Son: Donovan Johnson, Grandsons, Bronson Johnson and Miles Johnson; Sisters: Donna Rivers (Glenn), Christi Taylor (Scott), Sandy Morgan (Rick) and Angie Freeman (Theodis), Brothers: Steve Tuck (Shelley) and Butch LT Tuck (Tricia); Aunt and Uncle: Jerry and Anna Scott; Grandmother: Mildred Tuck; Numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and other close family and friends.

He was preceded in death by father, Jimmy Johnson, Sr.; Son: Brandon Johnson; Grandparents: Maggie and Carl Murphree; Ramey and Rhaniel Johnson

Visitation will be Thursday, May 28, 2026, 2:00-3:00pm, at Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church in Pascagoula.  Funeral Mass will begin at 3:00pm at the church.   A Private committal service will be held at Biloxi National Cemetery in Biloxi, MS.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Jackson County Animal Shelter, P.O. Box 998, Pascagoula, MS 39568.  You may send condolences his family or share a memory of Jimmy on the Tribute Wall. 

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