Janet Johnson
November 20, 1939 ~ October 5, 2023
Janet Johnson, 83, transitioned to eternal life on October 5, 2023. While on this earth she impacted others by living her faith with compassion for all, regardless of where others were on their faith journey or way of life.She was dedicated fully to her family and guided them by example, teaching and involvement. Janet frequently said, “The best job in the world is being a mom”. She was involved in her children’s lives as a religious education teacher, home room mom, cub scout leader and by always making their friends feel welcome in her home. No one left her home hungry, and often not without having had her brisket or homemade chicken noodle soup.She loved animals and children, as well as her own children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews. She lit up when around them. Over the past two years, Janet resided at Colwich Gardens Assisted Living Facility. She loved receiving visits from the staff members’ children and made sure there was always candy on hand to give as a treat, as well as treats for their dogs that would visit her.A committed Catholic, Janet was very involved in the Pro-Life movement in the 1970’s, helping to start a Right to Life chapter in Atlantic, Iowa where she lived. She also hosted and supported Vietnamese refugees in Atlantic, Iowa following the Vietnam War. As a member of Blessed Sacrament Parish, Janet held a weekly hour of Perpetual Adoration of the Eucharist for decades.Janet never stopped learning and finding ways to care for others. In her 50’s she earned her license as a nurse assistant, medical assistant, and ultimately a licensed practical nurse. She worked in nursing homes and clinics but said her passion was caring for those with Alzheimer’s or dementia.Janet’s oldest child Jennifer suffered significant injuries as a result of complications from a tonsillectomy when she was 16. Janet became Jennifer’s staunchest supporter, ensuring her care and providing the motivation and love Jennifer needed as she worked to regain some of what she lost. While others would have railed against God for this injustice, Janet kept her faith even through the darkest times. The world is a better place for Janet having been here and Heaven is brighter now. She is preceded in death by her parents, Arthur and Madge Stoltz; sister, Margo (Stoltz) Hemmen; and grandson, Abraham Higginbotham.She is survived by Don, her husband of 62 years; daughters, Jennifer Johnson of Colwich, Kansas, Amy Johnson Horn (Schuyler) of Silverdale, Washington, Emily Johnson Higginbotham (David and grandson, Thomas) of Fort Smith, Arkansas; and son, Michael Johnson (Julie and grandsons, Matthew and Noah) of Islamorada, Florida.Rosary will be at 9:30 am; Funeral Mass will be at 10:00 am, Friday, October 13, 2023, at Blessed Sacrament Catholic Church. Graveside Service will follow at 2:00 pm, at St. Peter the Apostle Catholic Cemetery, Schulte.Memorials have been established with: Kansans for Life, 3301 W. 13th St. N., Wichita, KS 67203; Boys & Girls Club of South Central Kansas, 2400 N. Opportunity Dr., Wichita, KS 67219.Services in care of Downing & Lahey East Mortuary.
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For years Janet and I shared family stories and happy memories — in the grocery store, of all places. It seemed like a weekly event and I missed her when she was no longer able to shop. She was a remarkable person , so loving and caring.
Mary Schaefer