Willie James Johnson, 56, of a lifelong resident of Gifford, FL passed away March 4, 2016 at Indian River Medical Center.

He was born May 5, 1959 to the late Carl B. Johnson and Ms. Jeanette Newton. An avid painter and artist, Willie graduated from the University of Tampa with an Associate of Arts degree.

He leaves his memories to be cherished by his mother, Jeanette Newton; sister, Shirley Jackson; sister, Angela Mansfield; brother, Jerome Johnson; brother, Cluston Johnson; sister, LaDonna Williams; sister, Vivian Hayes; 9 nieces and nephews; 13 great nieces and nephews and many cousins.

At the request of the family, services will be private.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cox Gifford Seawinds Funeral Home & Crematory, Vero Beach. An online guestbook may be signed at www.coxgiffordseawinds.com.