Celebrating the lives of Jimmy Lloyd Johnson, Sr. and Olenda Jean Williams Johnson

Together in life, together in love, and forever united in memory, we celebrate the lives of Jimmy Lloyd Johnson Sr. and Olenda Jean Williams Johnson.

Olenda Jean Williams Johnson

March 23, 1947 – May 23, 2026

Olenda Jean Williams Johnson, 79, of Bryant, Arkansas, passed from this world on May 23, 2026. She was, in every sense of the word, unforgettable.

Born on March 23, 1947, in El Dorado, Arkansas, she was the daughter of Olen “Pete” Williams and Mildred Marylee Walker Williams. A lifelong Catholic, she grew up attending Holy Redeemer Catholic Church and School. Her faith was steady and ever-present, and she was rarely without her rosary close by.

She married Jimmy Lloyd Johnson Sr. in June of 1966 and they established their home in Bryant, Arkansas, where she created a gathering place that was always welcoming and always full of laughter. She was the devoted mother of Jimmy Lloyd Johnson Jr. and his fiercest supporter, never missing a football game or motocross race, and always the loudest voice on the sideline.

Olenda was fierce, funny, and full of life. She had a bold sense of humor and said exactly what she thought, and somehow always left everyone laughing. She loved to dance and was always the life of the party in every room she entered. She was generous to her core, a talented Southern cook, a tender keeper of plants and animals, and a woman who showed up without hesitation for the people she loved.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jimmy Lloyd Johnson Sr.; her parents; and her siblings, Olen Williams Jr., Ricky Lee Williams, and Charlotte Gayle Williams Smith.

She is survived by her son, Jimmy Lloyd Johnson Jr. (Laura “goofy”); her grandchildren, Dakota Olen Johnson and Shelby Layne Johnson Pugh (David); her great-grandchildren, Bentley, Rilynn, Raegan, Olen, and Cairi; and a wide circle of beloved nieces, nephews, and extended family who knew her as “Aunt Winnie” and loved her dearly.

She left the world stronger, brighter, and far more alive- and she will not be forgotten.

Jimmy Lloyd Johnson Sr.

July 10, 1944 – October 1, 2023

Jimmy Lloyd Johnson Sr., 79, of Bryant, AR passed from this world on October 1, 2023. Jimmy was born on July 10, 1944, in Crossett, AR to Bass and Mary Johnson. His giving, generous spirit lives on through the many lives he touched throughout his life.

Jimmy married Olenda Jean Williams in June of 1966. Together they built a life centered on family, love, hard work, and loyalty. Their greatest pride and accomplishment were and forever will be their son, Jimmy Lloyd Johnson Jr.

Jimmy proudly served his country in the United States Army before beginning a dedicated career at Southwestern Bell. After retiring at the age of 51, he pursued his true passion for fishing and founded Tri-Lake Guide Service. Through his exceptional skill, knowledge of the water, and genuine love for people, Jimmy introduced countless individuals to the joy of hybrid fishing. The impact he had on people extended far beyond the lakes he guided, leaving behind cherished memories, lasting bonds with everyone who knew him, and of course, record-breaking bragging rights.

Jimmy is preceded in death by his parents and eight siblings.

He is survived by his son, Jimmy Lloyd Johnon Jr. (Laura); his grandchildren, Dakota Olen Johnson and Shelby Lynn Johnson Pugh (David); his great grandchildren, Bentley, Rilynn, Raegan, Olen, and Cairi.

As he casts his line in eternal waters, his beautiful spirit remains in every lake, sunrise, sunset, and every cherished memory.

A joint celebration of their lives will be held at Dial and Dudley Funeral Home on Monday, June 29, 2026, from 2pm-4pm. They were cremated, in accordance with their wishes.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Kids’ Closet in Bryant, Arkansas.

The love story they began on earth continues in eternity.