Karen Jean Johnson

Karen Jean Johnson, beloved mother, wife, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, peacefully passed away in her sleep on November 21st at their home in McQueeney, TX, after a courageous battle with Parkinson's. In accordance with Karen's wishes, she has been cremated and her ashes will be buried in a private ceremony. 

Throughout her 74 years of life, Karen exemplified unwavering dedication and love as she fulfilled her roles as a devoted wife to Dean for 54 years, a nurturing mother to her children, Stephen Johnson and Laura Mirochna, and a cherished grandmother to her grandchildren: Rachel, Renee, Alexander, Joshua, Sophia, Anna, and Trevor. Karen was preceded in death by her parents, Kenneth and Jacqueline Smith, and her brother, Michael Smith. Karen is survived by her husband, 2 children, 7 grandchildren, brothers Dennis, Paul, and Mark (who lovingly called her “Sis”), as well as numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews. Her presence radiated warmth and kindness in the lives of everyone she knew.

Karen's passion for music extended beyond her family circle; she generously shared her talent as a church pianist for over 50 years, enriching the worship experience for all who attended. Her gift of music brought solace and joy to those around her. Karen was an avid reader, knitter, and cook. During her years working alongside Dean as minister of music and youth, Karen cooked meals for hundreds of kids at a variety of camps, such as Falls Creek in Oklahoma. She retired as an office manager for an accounting firm in Thousand Oaks, CA. 

During this time of mourning tempered by celebration, we appreciate your love and support for our family. Although we grieve the loss of Karen, we find solace in knowing that she is now free from pain. We would ask her what she needed, and she would often say ”a new body.” Well, now she has a new body.

As an expression of sympathy and remembrance, donations can be made to the building fund at McQueeney Baptist Church, McQueeney, TX (https://www.mcqueeneybc.com/). 

In closing, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has shown love and compassion during this difficult time. Your presence and support have provided comfort as we honor the remarkable life of Karen Jean Johnson.

"Karen," A poem by granddaughter Renee, November 2023

The piano

sits on the stage.

The lights are dim,

and the crowds have all gone,

the last remnants of the chords

and the echo of applause

is dying out.

The keys jingle no more, 

the hymns they sing

a hollow silence

where great music once was

and never will be again. 

The piano 

leans against the wall. 

The lights are soft

and books line the walls.

Shaky hands reach out

tenderly stroking the keys,

growing more steady

with each note

as her hands remember how to play

and music begins to take shape

and fill the space

with notes of joy and peace.