Carolyn Lois Johnson

Carolyn Lois Johnson, age 86, of Topeka, KS, passed away on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at Legend at Capitol Ridge.

She was born the daughter of Glenn and Berniece (Anderson) Messenger on January 29, 1938, in McPherson, KS. Carolyn grew up in Roxbury and was a 1956 graduate from Roxbury High School. She then attended Kansas State Teachers College (Emporia State University). On February 17, 1963, Carolyn married Howard Byrl Johnson in Roxbury, KS. Together, they shared 59 years of marriage until Howards passing on March 19, 2022.

Carolyn worked as a secretary for many years. She enjoyed gardening, planting green beans, tomatoes, bowling and playing solitaire. Her greatest love was for her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. Being able to attend and watch her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren’s activities brought her great joy. Carolyn was proud of her Swedish heritage. She and Howard attended Susanna Wesley UMC.

Survivors include her two daughters, Finette Gress (Richard Carlson), Mary Thurmon (Charles); seven grandchildren, Amy Hamilton (Travis), Ryan Gress (Meredith), Stacy Tillman (Blake), Carly Cain (Daniel), Lindsay Leakey (Jake), Stephany Rohleder (Cameron), and Marcy Peaden (Kaleb). Other survivors include her six great grandchildren, Christian, Paityn, Chloe, Emerson, Hayden, and Rhea.

She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Howard Johnson; brother, Keith Messenger; and a sister, Barbara Bufford.

Visitation for Carolyn will be held from 10-11:00 A.M., on Thursday, August 15, 2024, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 A.M., both being held at Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home. Burial will follow at Rochester Cemetery.

Memorial contributions can be made in Carolyn’s memory to Ascend Hospice, 5020 Bob Billings Parkway, Lawrence, KS 66049. Contributions can be mailed or left with the funeral home.

To share a memory or to leave condolences, please visit, www.brennanmathenafh.com.

Arrangements entrusted to Brennan-Mathena Funeral Home, 800 SW 6th Ave., Topeka, KS 66603.