Raymond Lee Johnson

On May 7, 2025, Raymond Lee Johnson (69) unexpectedly passed away while relaxing in his favorite recliner

at Home in Jackson, MO. He was born on September 28, 1955 to Raymond ‘Alan’ and Leona (Shelton)

Johnson, in Cairo, Illinois.

If you were lucky enough to know Raymond, then you knew a selfless, spirited man who lived to make

everyone’s lives just a little bit better. He was always excellent at stirring up some small talk about an

interesting topic, and was quick to drop the ol: “HA! That is a fact!”

Raymond was the perfect package of

kindness, compassion, and empathy, always willing to help if he could.

He married his wife of 41 years, Lori (Schirmer) on May 5th, 1984 in Altenburg MO. Over the years they

rescued several dogs and cats together. Even though he often started out as the nay sayer when it came to

the arrival of a new ‘furkid’; he always fell in love with them, and spoiled them with custom built dog houses

and scratching posts.

Raymond was an avid hunter in his days of youth. As he aged, he often said that he had “become a softy” and

couldn’t bear to hurt an animal anymore. In the last 15 years, his early morning/evening “hunts” became

cruising backroads at 5-10 mph stopping to admire the buck with the biggest rack, or the fleeting albino deer of

Cape Girardeau. When the opportunity arose to pass down his knowledge of deer hunting he was right back in

the woods as if he had never missed a beat…but he definitely favored those binoculars over the scope.

He spent the majority of his 35+ year career, proudly serving the folks of Chateau Girardeau. Occasionally, the

residents would give him small priceless items that meant so much to them, but may be seen as junk to others.

He took the time to hear all the stories, and cherished the true value of the gift. He carried those stories with

him throughout his life and would proudly tell the tales every chance he had.

During his well deserved retirement, Raymond spent his time refurbishing old furniture, helping out family and

spending time with friends. He visited with his beloved mother daily, and cherished the time he had with his

brother, Kenny, before his passing in 2023.

Raymond was so proud of his family, and bragged about them every chance he had. After 41 years, he still

kissed his wife good-bye every time they parted ways. He so dearly treasured and valued the experiences of

being a Father, Grandpa, and an Uncle. He favored the memories and moments spent with his son, Justin, and

his granddaughters.

Raymond is survived by his close friends, and a large loving family that he cherished so dearly. His immediate

family survivors include his wife, Lori of Jackson, MO; his mother, Leona Johnson of Jackson, MO; his son,

Justin (Mandy) and family, and sister, Jackie (James) Myers and family of Chaffee, MO We take a great deal of

relief knowing that Raymond has been reunited with those who proceeded his passing: his beloved

grandparents; Thurman and Hazel Shelton, and siblings; Kenny Johnson, and Cheryl Kiefer.

We are blessed with the many memories, laughs, lessons, and stories told by Raymond over the years. With

such a big heart and unique personality, to know him was to truly love him.

Private family services for Raymond will be held on Tuesday May 13th at the Hutchings-Pendergrass Funeral Chapel in Marble Hill, MO. Burial will follow at the Baker

Cemetery in Marble Hill, MO.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be given to the Baker Cemetery Maintenance fund of Marble Hill MO.