Ira Stephens Johnson

Ira Stephens Johnson, of Justin, Texas, born January 19, 1920 in Springfield Arkansas to Ira Claude & Ollie Johnson. Ira went to be with our Lord on March 24, 2009. Ira faithfully served the country he loved with the Seabees in WWII in the Pacific Theatre from 1942-1946. Before departing to serve his country, Ira married the love of his life Jacoba "Jackie" Johnson on New Year's Day 1941. Ira and Jackie shared 66 years in marriage where they rarely left each other's side. Upon return from service Ira worked as a Store Manager with Kroger. From there he joined Coca Cola in Little Rock and remained there until his retirement after 37 years of service. Ira and Jackie resided in Little Rock for over 40 years. They moved to Justin, TX in 2001 to be closer to their daughter and her family. Ira was an avid sportsman. He enjoyed hunting and fishing, especially with his two grandsons. Ira was well known for his ability to fix anything. Ira was always quick to offer his helping hand whether to family, friends, neighbors or strangers. Ira had a quick wit and glowing sense of humor; he always put a smile on the face of anyone in his presence. Given Ira's many talents and qualities, the most endearing was his selfless devotion to his family. Ira gave his heart and soul to his wife, daughter, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Ira was preceded in death by his beloved wife Jackie, brothers Johnny Bob and Roy, sisters Willie Johnson and Audrey Mae Mallett. Ira is survived by daughter Barbara Roberts and her husband John, "adopted son and daughter" Denny and Patti Moseley, granddaughter Randi Roberts, grandsons Mike Shirley and wife Keely, Tom Shirley and wife Kellie, great-granddaughter Brandie, great-grandsons Alex and Zach Shirley and Jayden Shirley, along with numerous nieces, nephews, friends and neighbors that grew to adore him over the years. Ira was truly a saint amongst us. His life was a devotion to country, family and his fellow man. Ira truly left this world a better place. He served as a role model to more people than he knew. Ira has now rejoined the love of his life Jackie. They are now reunited in the presence of our Lord and Savior. While we all carry heavy hearts in the loss of such a great man, we are comforted in knowing that he is reunited with his soul mate. Those that knew him best are also assured that there will never be a single squeaky hinge on the pearly gates. We will never forget our "Papo". Services will be at 1:00 PM Saturday, March 28, at the Harris Chapel with burial at Mallettown Cemetery by Harris Funeral Home of Morrilton. The family will receive friends from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Friday, at the funeral home.