Lawrence Johnson

PALMYRA, Mo. -- Lawrence "L.J." Johnson, 102, of Palmyra, died Wednesday (June 10, 2015) at his home.

L.J. was born Sept. 26, 1912, in Palmyra, a son of Joseph A.R. and Ursula Shear Johnson. He married Viola Yougk, who preceded him in death. He later married Carrie Fielder in Kentucky. Carrie died Oct. 21, 2011.

L.J. was a member of St. Joseph Catholic Church in Palmyra and a 50-year member of the Western Catholic Union.

In his younger years, he managed the Durham Bears men's baseball team. He enjoyed playing cards, fishing and bowling.

Surviving are one daughter, Betty Bross of Palmyra; one son-in-law, Harry Vanzant; grandchildren, Rod Bross, Mark (Chris) Bross, Marsha Bross-Riney, Tony (Lori) Vanzant, Anika Olson, Crystal (Bart) Mersch and Patricia (Corbin) Marchack; great-grandchildren, Bethaney (Jason) Wisehart, Zach, Karley and Austin Riney, Tabetha (Stephen Cannon) Bross, Sami Bross, Kaley Augspurg, Kayla, Kelsey and Cortney Vanzant, Mackenzie, Jake and Keeley Mersch, and Clayton and Dominic Marchack; great-great-grandchildren, Avery and Trento Wisehart, and Bentley and Brycin Cannon; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by one daughter, Carolyn Vanzant; one son-in-law, Denny Bross; three brothers; one sister; and two great-grandchildren, Bailey Bross and Christy Olson.

SERVICES: 11 a.m. Friday, June 12, at St. Joseph Catholic Church, Palmyra. The Rev. Alex Ekka, the Rev. Louis Schlangen and Deacon Bob Leacke will conduct. Interment will be in St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Palmyra.

VISITATION: 10 a.m. Friday, June 12, until services at the church.

MEMORIALS: Palmyra Nutrition Center or St. Joseph Catholic Church.

ARRANGEMENTS: Hunter Funeral Home, Mendon, Ill.

WEBSITE: www.hunterfh.com.

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