James F Johnson

James F. (Jim) Johnson, 80, beloved husband of Sandy Evoy, died suddenly on May 25, 2024.

Jim was born July 21, 1943. A proud resident of Hartford’s South End for 61 years, he graduated from Bulkeley High School in the class of 1961. He earned a B.S. from Fairfield University and an M.S. from Central Connecticut State University.

He was an employee of the Hartford School System for over 35 years. Best known as a Chemistry teacher, “Mr. Johnson” was a coach of the Golf Team and an advisor for the Connecticut Pre-Engineering Program.

After retiring, he followed the sun to Hutchinson Island, and later, Stuart, Florida, where he lived his dream of beachcombing, watching the surf and playing golf.

Jim was a consummate storyteller. He entertained his family and friends with stories of his children, his childhood on Kenneth Street, his favorite golf holes and his triumphant holes-in-one.

As a teenager, he could usually be found at Goodwin Park Golf Course. He also caddied at the Wethersfield Country Club and in 1959, he was the proud caddy when Gene Littler won the Insurance City Open there. 

Above all, Jim treasured his family and loved them all unconditionally. He was at his happiest in their company. 

He was a kindhearted man who set an example for his children, stepsons and grandchildren by living his life with fidelity and integrity. He found joy in a good round of golf, sharing beers with his friends at a Hartford pub and reading the teachings of Buddha.

In addition to his wife, Sandy Evoy, Jim is survived by his children: Joanne Johnson-Hajduk (George) of Winthrop, ME, Colleen Johnson Claussen of Granby, CT, Vincent Johnson (Brooke) of North Berwick, ME, stepsons Scott Steinert-Evoy (Alex) of Watertown, MA, Chris Evoy (Alex Taylor) of Stuart, FL and 10 grandchildren. Micaela, Katriona & Moriah Hajduk, Rachel (Claussen) Chatmas, Paris & Liam Claussen, Tessa & Sophia Steinert-Evoy, Sabrina & Caleb Evoy.

He also leaves behind his brothers, William Johnson, John Johnson (Andrea) and his sister Maureen Clemens (Rick), all of Wethersfield.

He will be dearly missed by his many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his parents John and Margaret (Mulryan) Johnson, his brother Robert Johnson (Ann Bly), his sister-in-law Joanne (Murray) Johnson and his dear sister and brother-in-law, Patricia and Greg Godbout.

Please join our family on Sunday, July 28, 2024 at the Arch Street Tavern from 1-4pm and raise a pint to Jim’s memory at a traditional Irish wake. 

Burial will be private. Condolences and special memories of Jim can be shared with his family online at www.heritagecremationsociety.com 

Heritage Cremation & Burial Society 

(330) 875-5770