John Clayton Johnson Jr.

On Aug 31, we lost our Brother, our Father, our “Pa”, our Friend, but mostly, a part of our heart. John, "Johnny", "JJ", "Pop", Dad gave us 67 years filled with laughter, music, tears, and a TON of love. His charisma was palpable, and everywhere he went, he brought light to the space.

JJ was a natural athlete. As a kid he dominated little league sports and was an imposing figure on the football field, the baseball field, and on the basketball court. As he got older, sports gave way to other interests. This was partly due to the fact that he began to grow his hair out and refused to cut it, no matter how much the coaches begged! Oh, what might have been.

JJ could build or fix virtually anything. He built RC cars and airplanes, go carts, mini-bikes and motorcycles, and later in life, he even began to make watches. In junior high he built a stereo tuner and amplifier that lasted for over 20 years, and still worked perfectly when it was finally retired. He also built a control box with on-off switches for his bedroom that controlled every powered item in his room, including the light switch and bedroom door lock. Early in high school he became known as “Thee Car Stereo Guy” of Utah, which developed into the early part of his professional career, and we’re pretty sure he invented the concept of the $3,000 stereo in a $1,000 car.

His electronic wizardry rolled over into other careers. One of many examples was that once while at a Dart Tournament at the Red Garter Casino in Wendover, NV, The General Manager was complaining about the fact they had hired multiple companies to try and fix their security system. All these “professionals” claimed it required all new hardware. JJ offered to check it out, and in less than 30 minutes told them what was wrong, how to fix it, where to get the parts, and how much it would cost. A week later, he was the new Security and Surveillance Manager for the Red Garter. JJ spent several years working in Wendover, even serving his community as a City Councilman for a number of years, a role he took great pride in.

JJ LOVED the outdoors. He loved fishing, shooting, exploring nature, trips to “The River" with his entire family, and taking his sons out to see the stars and the Hale-Bopp Comet on the outskirts of Wendover.

In addition to his many other talents, he was an exceptional musician. He was a Bard, a Busker, a Troubadour, and was unstoppable around a campfire with his Ovation Model 1111 Balladeer, and his wingman Larry Rukavina - “Uncle Larry”. He spread his song everywhere and inspired generations of future musicians.

JJ was a hard worker, a good provider, a loving father, a doting partner, and a lifelong steadfast friend. He is survived by his wife Tammy, his sons Tyler (Hadley), Ryan (Michelle), Stepsons Michael Wurzer (Emily), Nicolas Wurzer (Neondra), Andrew Schetrompf (Riann), and many grandchildren which he adored. He is also survived by his sisters Patti Phillips (Chris), Robin Cowley (Steve), Ruth Johnson (Jim Wilcox), his brother Steve (Samantha), and his brother in law Mark Walker, along with many nephews and nieces. He is preceded in death by his parents John and Lorraine and his sister Debra Walker Briggs.

The world feels a little darker now, but to keep that darkness at bay, his family will be hosting a Celebration of Life November 14th, and welcome your attendance. We will be gathering to remember the stories, sing the songs, and celebrate the love that he spread.

November 14th, 2026 - 3:00 pm – 6:00 PM
Springtree Lane Condominiums Social Center (Just past the pool)
615 E. 5600 S.
Murray, Utah

“When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure”