James Earl Johnson

James Earl Johnson, age 65, passed away peacefully on Monday, March 9, 2026, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his family.

Born on October 16, 1960, in Saratoga Springs, New York, James was the beloved son of Hamp C. Johnson and Alice Poole Johnson. Raised in the Saratoga community he called home throughout his life, James developed a deep appreciation for family, friendship, and the simple joys that life had to offer.

James dedicated many years of service as an auditor for the Economic Opportunity Council (EOC) in the Ballston Spa area. Known for his reliability and strong work ethic, he took pride in his work and the relationships he built along the way.

Outside of his professional life, James enjoyed spending his time doing the things that brought him happiness. He loved fishing, sharing stories and laughter while playing pool with family and friends, and cheering on his favorite team, the Dallas Cowboys. He was also a devoted dog lover and found great companionship in his beloved dogs, Suzie, Danita, and Sarah.

More than anything, James treasured the people in his life. He shared a loving partnership with his companion, Valerie Crawford, and embraced her children, Bridget Surprenant (Wes) and Jason Geno (Amanda), as his own. He took great joy in being a grandfather to Noah Wicks (Bri) and Jaden Geno, and was especially proud to be a great-grandfather to Maximus Wicks.

James is also survived by his brother, David Johnson (Christine), along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and dear friends, Tom and Barb Stevens, Debbie King and the late Freedom King, Jackie (Jaxon) Marcellus; caring neighbors, Mark and June, Bill, John and Beverly who will remember him for his warm heart, sense of humor, and the many memories he created with those he loved.

He was predeceased by his parents, Hamp C. Johnson and Alice Poole Johnson; his sister, Marlene Johnson; and his brothers, Hamp Johnson, Percy Johnson and Jeff Johnson.

Family and friends are invited to gather and pay their respects from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. on Friday, March 13, 2026, at Compassionate Funeral Care, 402 Maple Avenue, Saratoga Springs, NY 12866. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Saratoga Community Hospice for their compassionate care, and to Earl’s Aide, Destiny Fisher, for her dedicated support.

Condolences may be shared with the family online at www.compassionatefuneralcare.com

To send flowers to the family, please visit our floral store.