Earnie Gene Johnson of Norris City

Earnie Gene Johnson, 76, of Norris City, passed away on Sunday, Jan. 31, at the VA Medical Center in Marion.

He was born on July 12, 1944, the son of R.J. and Mabel (Sittig) Johnson. Earnie married Kathleen Joyce Tjarks on July 12, 1981, and she survives. He was a six-year U.S. Army veteran and served in Vietnam. After serving his country, he came home and worked as a truck driver as well as at the Tri-County Chemical Plant.

Later he went back to truck driving into retirement at Raleigh Ready Mix. If you knew Earnie, you know this man was a hoot! He could make a joke or funny out of anything, and quick! He never met a stranger and was certain to get a smile from any face. Earnie enjoyed spending time outdoors, going to local restaurants to aggravate, porch swinging with his cup of coffee, and fishing. He loved his wife, children, and grandchildren so very much. He will be greatly missed but now is living his best life, healed with Jesus.

"Later."

Earnie is survived by his wife, Kathy Johnson; three sons, Richard (Katy) Johnson of Austin, Texas, Kenneth (Amy) Johnson of Weldon and Tyler Johnson of Waltonville; two daughters, Darcy (Jeff) Cornelius of Abilene, Texas and Kati (Jeff) Sturgal of Norris City; three stepsons, Rick Andreae of Clinton, Christian Andreae of Harrisburg and Steven (Cathy) Andreae of Mansfield; 25 grandchildren; nine great-grandchildren; and a sister, Etta Harrelson of Harrisburg.

He was preceded in death by his parents and two brothers, Frank and Ronnie Johnson.

A celebration of life for Earnie Gene Johnson, will be held 11 a.m. on Saturday, Feb. 6, 2021 at Campbell Funeral Home in Norris City with full military honors provided by the Carmi American Legion and VFW. Friends and family may visit from 10 a.m. until service time.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Earnie's wife Kathy Johnson to help with further expenses. In addition, donations can be made on his behalf to Lick Creek Church and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and will be accepted at Campbell Funeral Home in Norris City, which is in charge of arrangements.

In accordance with CDC and IDPH regulations, social distancing will be observed and wearing masks will be required.