Jim Johnson

Class of 2011

Jim Johnson, born May 16, 1935, in Athens, Alabama, carved a legendary career as one of the most feared fast-pitch softball pitchers in the Southeast. Standing 6-foot-5, Johnson’s blistering fastball, clocked at 98 mph, and long stride made him nearly unhittable from the 46-foot mound.

Beginning in Athens’ fast-pitch league in 1958, Johnson moved to Huntsville in 1960 to join the Merchants, later playing for the powerhouse United Surgical Steel team in Montgomery. His finest year came in 1972 when he went 33-0, was named MVP in both state and regional tournaments, and pitched a perfect game with all 21 outs via strikeout.

Over his career (1958-1985), Johnson was a multiple Hall of Fame inductee, including the Alabama ASA Hall of Fame and the Blue and Gray Softball Hall of Fame. He was named a softball All-American in 1979 and famously faced Eddie Feigner’s “King and His Court” 12 times, winning seven.

A Butler High graduate and U.S. Air Force veteran, Johnson earned his business degree from Athens State and enjoyed a successful insurance career. In retirement, he’s also known for his musical talent, playing steel guitar in a country band — a testament to his competitive spirit and versatility.

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