Bucky Johnson

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved father, James Felder “Bucky” Johnson, who went home to be with the Lord on February 1st, 2026, at the age of 78.

Bucky was a man of faith, kindness, strength, and humor.  He lived his life devoted to his family and those he loved. He was a steady presence, a source of wisdom, and a protector whose love never wavered. To know him was to feel supported, encouraged, and deeply loved.

Bucky was a man of strength, quiet wisdom, and deep love for his family. He lived his life as a steady presence—someone you could depend on, learn from, and feel safe with. His guidance, work ethic, and love left an imprint on everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

On January 1, 1977, Bucky became the owner of J.F. Johnson Candy and Tobacco. The business was operated as J. F. Johnson Candy & Tobacco, Inc. until 1985, when, feeling that the name was somewhat deceiving due to the variety of products and services offered, it was changed to J. F. Johnson, Inc. A major expansion project was undertaken in 1996 and completed in 1997.  For 48 years, he successfully ran J.F. Johnson Inc. On October 16, 2025, Bucky decided to sell J.F. Johnson Inc. to J.L Gaddy.  

He loved watching his beloved Gamecocks, the Batesburg-Leesville Panthers, and the Upstate Spartans. He found joy in watching old movies, listening to gospel and beach music, and other simple pleasures, but his greatest joy was his family. He taught the value of hard work, faith, integrity, love, laughter, and lessons that will continue to guide his family every day.

He is survived by his children, Melanie Johnson Lorick (Ken), Laurie Johnson Boozer (Brad), James F. Johnson, Jr, “Jamie” (Kelly), Sarah Jane Johnson Bowker (Rob); grandchildren, Adrian Johnson Caughman (Alexander), Matthew Boozer, Jackson Lorick, Amie Johnson (Luke Derrick), Jacob Boozer (Taylor Crouch), Michael Lorick, Audrey Bowker, and Ezra Bowker;  great-granddaughter, Riley Grace Caughman; sisters, Rosemary Johnson Metts (George) and Marie Johnson Taylor (Sam), who will forever cherish his memory and the love he poured into their lives. He is predeceased by his parents, Jackson Felder Johnson and Rosa Knight Johnson.  

Though our hearts are broken, we take comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the love he gave so freely. We rejoice in the promise that we will see him again.

Memorial service will be conducted 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 5, 2026 at St. John’s Global Methodist Church with the Rev. Scott Nurse officiating.  

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to St. John’s Global Methodist Building Fund, 513 W. Church Street, Batesburg SC 29006. Barr-Price Funeral Home and Crematorium, Historic Batesburg-Leesville Chapel is assisting the Johnson family with arrangements.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Bucky Johnson, please visit our floral store.