Memorial Fund Honoring James Johnson, III

On February 4th, 2023, our 17-year-old son James became another victim of gun violence. Details are still unclear right now, but we do know that he was visiting a classmate's home where drugs, alcohol, and guns were present.

James was an extremely bright kid, who loved to play basketball, cook, and work on entrepreneurial projects. He volunteered at aftercare for the archdiocese schools, he was an intern for Eli Lilly, he played basketball for Purdue Polytechnic High School, and he operated his own business, focused on bringing awareness about healthy alternatives in food deserts. 317Fruitman was a labor of love and indicative of his giving spirit.

He will be remembered by everyone he touched. His parents, James and Latoya, and his 2 sisters, Jayla and Jasmine, will work to carry on his ideas, his spirit, and the 317Fruitman legacy.

We intend to start an annual scholarship fund for high school seniors and juniors who have been affected by gun violence. We believe the best way to memorialize James is to ensure that no other parents experience a tragedy like this. We hope to encourage others to invest in children's hobbies and entrepreneurial pursuits, providing healthy outlets for the youth of greater Indianapolis.