Clinton, IL -- Jacob "JD" D. Johnson, born February 5, 1942, passed away surrounded by the love of his family on May 7, 2026, 3:23 p.m. at OSF St. Joseph Hospital in Bloomington, Illinois.
JD was, in every sense that mattered, a cowboy — not by trade, but by character. He lived with strength and courage, doing the hard things when they needed to be done, while always carrying himself with a quiet, gentlemanly grace. He believed deeply in respect — especially in the way a man should treat women — with kindness, dignity, and honor. He also believed in the responsibility of men to protect and care for their families — values he lived out every day of his life.
As a man of 5'10", he often seemed larger than life. His willingness to lend a hand, offer a service, or simply stop for a chat gave him a presence that extended far beyond his stature. At times, he carried the weight of responsibility on broad shoulders as if it were effortless — just cowboying it up.
JD took pride in being well-groomed and put together. He often joked that if someone showed up in a wrinkled shirt, they “must have slept on a park bench.” Boots, pressed pants, and pearl-snap shirts were his standard for out, denim for work, but always clean-shaven, fresh haircut, and hair neatly combed. He did not like to be “out of sorts,” whether in his appearance or in the arrangement of his garage, tools, shop, or even the placement of items in his truck. Tools were to be returned neatly to their holders, and seat protectors carefully put back into place, bearings always greased, and maintenance documented. To JD, there was a certain calm in order, in things being in their place, and in presenting oneself with care.
He was born to Lillie Beeler Johnson and Edward Wade Johnson during a time when the world was at war. In his early years, he spent much of his time with his grandparents, Jake and Mable Beeler, who helped shape the foundation of the man he would become.
JD grew up in Kenney, Illinois, and attended Kenney schools until its consolidation with Clinton schools. He graduated from Clinton High School, where he was an active member of the FFA and served as Vice President (1959–1960) and President (1960–1961) of the Chapter.
JD worked as a driver for the Teamsters until 2002. After his “retirement,” he continued his life of service with the Tunbridge Township Road Commission, where he worked as the Road Commissioner until his passing. He now bequeaths the rocks, shovels, salt, and road pack to the trusted morning coffee crew at the township shed.
The word “retirement” was always used loosely — because if you knew JD, you knew it was never truly an option. Though he loved music, motors, horses, buying trailers, trading lawn mowers, and finding the best deal on just about anything, JD’s true hobby was work. He once said his only regret was that “maybe he worked too much.” Those who knew him understood that it would never have been any other way — but they should also carry forward his quiet wisdom: keep work in perspective and do not let it become your whole life.
In July of 1961, he eloped with the love of his life, Ruth P. Moews of Bloomington, Illinois, who survives. Together they built a life rooted in Central Illinois, raising their three daughters near the Kenney area. When asked about being married so young, and eloping, would you change anything? JD smiled and said, “He would do it, again, all over with her.” Their stead-fast love was a grounding feature of their relationship from conception to end.
JD carried his legacy of guidance, guardianship, direction, and protection not only to his children, but to the generations that followed. He welcomed seven grandchildren: Joshua Baker (Wisconsin), Jacalyn Green (Illinois), Cameron Green (Illinois), Jake Cooley (wife Sheena; Illinois), Jonah Cooley (Indiana), and Jade Henson (Illinois). He was preceded in death by one granddaughter, Ronna Nicole Burden Yoakam.
He also welcomed great-grandchildren: Lauren Raithel; Maci and Kira Brooks; Wyatt and Kennedy Cooley; Isiah, Elijah, and Marley Yoakam; and JoCee Totten.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Ruth; and his daughters, Laurie Green (Darcy Green), Dede Johnson, and Kristina Valentine (Ron Devore), all of Clinton, IL. Both his brothers, Rick K Johnson (wife, Marvetta; Illinois) Mike Johnson (wife, Ginger; Tennessee) survive him, along with several nieces and nephews that simply call him “Uncle Jake.”
His legacy lives on through the family he helped shape and the values he instilled in them. On hard days, JD would often drive home listening to Floyd Cramer, letting the troubles of the day drift out the window before he walked through the door. Long before “being present” became a common phrase, Jake practiced it. Perhaps it was because home was not always quiet — with three daughters who could give him a run for his money, and later grandchildren who sometimes needed the steady guidance and direction only grandpa could provide. His expectations at home were firm but always rooted in understanding and love. No matter what day, JD believed in letting the bad out the window and bringing his best-self home to the people who mattered most. Giving intention and attention to family — was one of his cowboy ways.
JD will be remembered for the way he showed up — for his family, for his responsibilities, and for the life he built with steady hands and a strong heart. He will be deeply missed and forever honored.
A celebration of life will be held at Little Galilee Christian Camp, 7539 Little Galilee Road, Clinton, IL on Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m., and the family is requesting for all to bring a memory and share a story to honor this great man.
Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Peasley Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
