Master Johnnie ("L J") Ursery IV

REFLECTIONS OF JOHNNIE'S TIME WITH US

JOHNNIE “L. J.” URSERY IV, affectionately known as “Chef Johnnie,” was born on June 3, 2008, in St. Louis, Missouri, to loving parents, Johnnie Ursery III and Lynette Ursery. He tragically left us on September 6, 2023, in University City, Missouri. His infectious smile, generous nature, and optimistic spirit left an indelible mark on all who knew him.

From a young age, Johnnie, or “Lil Johnnie”, as he was fondly called, was deeply rooted in the Christian community. Known for his faith and prayerfulness, he was a beacon of hope and a light for his family in a world that oftentimes seems filled with darkness. His faith served as his guiding compass. His mother fondly recalls how even as a young child, Johnnie would lead the family in prayer. A fierce protector, he served as a prayer covering for his family, embodying the words of the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 6:11, “Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes.”

His kindness and gentility were demonstrated in many simple acts. He was always ready to lend a hand, whether it was opening car doors, carrying groceries, or helping with household chores.

Johnnie’s love for cooking earned him the nickname “Chef Johnnie.” His culinary skills were a source of joy for those around him, and he embraced his talent with enthusiasm. He also loved sports, particularly basketball, and was an ardent fan of Giannis Antetokounmpo, Kobe Bryant and Kobe’s daughter, Giovanni. He was a member of the University City football team as a kid, the Ladue High School basketball team last year, and the Ladue High School track team. Johnnie also enjoyed swimming and playing video games in his free time. Johnnie was a proud sophomore at Ladue High School, where he was known for his academic excellence, maintaining a 4.0 GPA the previous school year. His teachers fondly remember his positive energy, respectfulness, and the infectious smile that filled every room he entered. He was not only an exceptional student but also a cherished friend who was always ready to lend a helping hand or share a good joke. His passing leaves a void in the Ladue High School’s student body that will never be filled.

Johnnie approached life almost as if he knew he didn’t have long to be here, because he did so much at a young age. Johnnie made everyone feel loved, appreciated, and special. His life, though short, was full of meaning and purpose. Johnnie was a young man full of promise, with dreams and aspirations that stretched beyond the horizon. His parents, who loved him dearly, were eagerly looking forward to seeing him bloom into the wonderful man they knew he would become. Despite his young age, Johnnie’s character was marked by his courage to speak his mind and his ability to see the humor in every situation. His optimism was infectious, and his gentleness was a comfort to all. He touched many lives with his kindness and will be deeply missed.

L. J.’s infectious smile could light up a room, his energy radiating love and warmth. He was a loving, faith-filled, and thoughtful young man. His life was a living testament of the scripture, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). In the words of the well-known evangelist, Billy Graham, “My home is in Heaven. I’m just traveling through this world.” L. J. was indeed a traveler, touching lives and spreading love and joy wherever he went. Johnnie was the youngest member of a large, loving blended family and will be sorely missed by his mother, Lynette (Mark) Agnew; father, Johnnie Ursery III; eleven siblings, Ja’niya Ursery, Bionka Thiel, Arrieon Watson, Christian Watson, Montrell Ursery, Jamel Ursery, Markia Mitchell, Mariah Evans, Marissa Agnew, Shammetrice Trust, and Mark Agnew, Jr.; maternal grandparents, Wiley Davis and Deborah Davis; paternal grandmother, Alberta Jefferson; he was a beloved uncle to two nieces and a nephew; and he held a special place in the hearts of his aunts, uncles, cousins, special friends, and favorite teachers who will forever remember his warm and loving heart.

As we mourn the untimely passing of Johnnie “L. J.” Ursery IV, let us remember the joy and love he brought into our lives. His memory will always be a reminder of the power of kindness, the joy of shared laughter, and the importance of family. As we have gathered to remember L. J., let us celebrate his life and the love he shared with us all. Let us hold on to the memories we made with him and cherish the time we were blessed to have him in our lives. Let us remember him as a loving son, a caring brother, a dutiful grandson, devoted uncle, a loyal friend, and a faithful servant of the Lord. Let us take comfort in knowing that he is now in a place where there is no pain or sorrow, only joy and peace. His life, though cut short, was a testament to the enduring power of love and the strength of the human spirit. Johnnie Ursery IV, our beloved L. J., may have left this world, but he will forever remain in our hearts.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Master Johnnie ("L J") Ursery IV, please visit our floral store.