Danvers - James Richard "Jim" Johnson, 78, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2022, following a brief illness.

Born in Gloucester on April 4, 1944, he was the son of the late Sam and Fran (Watters) Johnson. He was raised and educated in Gloucester and graduated from Gloucester High School in 1962. He played defense on the All-Star Hockey Team and remained passionate about hockey throughout his whole life. In his younger years, Jim operated his own commercial lobster fishing business. He also delivered gas for Eastern Propane in Danvers, where he retired in 2014, after over 30 years of service. Most recently, Jim was employed as a crossing guard for the Town of Danvers; it was a job he truly loved. Throughout his life, Jim was an avid hunter and fisherman. He was absolutely passionate about his time spent on the water fishing. Jim rode the tides of life. He casted and hooked many with his kindness and enormous smile. He was larger than life on all levels.

He is survived by his daughter, Jill Mandia; his granddaughter, Paige Mandia; and his former wife, Laura Johnson, all of Essex; and his special friend, Julie Williams of Danvers. He was predeceased by his sister, Charlotte "Skip" Walsh.

A celebration of Jim's life will be planned for a later date. In lieu of flowers expressions of sympathy may be made in Jim's name to the Cape Ann Animal Aid, 4 Paws Lane, Gloucester, MA 01930, www.capeannanimalaid.org. Arrangements are made by C.R. Lyons & Sons, Funeral Directors, 28 Elm St., Danvers. Online condolences are available at LyonsFuneral.com.