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MYRTLE BEACH — James M. Johnson, 80, died Nov. 28, 2012 at his home in Myrtle Beach, S.C.

He was a retired Senior Master Sergeant, serving his country for 28 years in the US Air Force. James served during both the Korean and Vietnam Wars.

He was born Aug. 1, 1932 in Lockhart, S.C. to the late Julius Marion and Mabel (Harris) Johnson.

He was predeceased by a sister, Helen J. Helms; and a brother, Jerry S. Johnson.

Survivors include his wife, Charlene E. Johnson; a son, David M. Johnson of Omaha, NE; a daughter, Liane M. Dart of Colorado Springs, CO; three stepsons, Kenneth, James and Brian Spice; four granddaughters, Shannon Henson, Heather Bjorklund, Nicole Golladay and Ashlee Dart; and six great-grandchildren. He is also survived by sisters June J. Parrott of Midland, N.C. and Carol J. Shockley of Chester, S.C.

SMSgt Johnson’s military career allowed him to serve at various bases in the United States, as well as Korea, the Philippines, Vietnam and a remote tour in Alaska. He held numerous military positions including military police, radar operations, electronic warfare and First Sgt. His earned the following medals: Korean Service medal, United Nations Service medal, National Defense Service medal, Good Conduct Service medal with four bronze loops, Air Force Vietnam Service Award with three oak leaf clusters, trhree Air Force Commendation medals and the Meritorious Service medal.

After his military retirement, he worked 19 years for Montgomery Ward Co. as a manager over six different departments in Colorado Springs, CO. He retired from Wards in 1996. James was an active member of the Forestbrook Baptist Church, a Life Member of the DAV and American Legion Post 178 in Murrell’s Inlet.

A funeral service will be held at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 1, 2012 at Forestbrook Baptist Church with Rev. Jim Shriver officiating. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service. Burial will be concluded with full military honors at Florence National Cemetery at 9 a.m. Monday, Dec. 3, 2012.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Forestbrook Baptist Church, 2051 Forestbrook Road, Myrtle Beach, S.C. 29588.

An online guestbook is available at www.goldfinchfuneralhome.com/obituaries

Goldfinch Funeral Home, Beach Chapel is in charge of the arrangements.