Shirley K. Johnson

Shirley K. Johnson, age 94, formerly of Marion, IN, passed away on Oct. 16 in Dayton, OH.

Shirley was born in the copper mining town of Ajo, AZ, the only living child of Sue (Gregerson) and Gerry McCallum. The family later moved to Los Angeles, CA, where Shirley and her friends enjoyed collecting autographs from Hollywood stars. Eventually, the family resided in Marion, OH, where Shirley played percussion in the Harding High School band. It was there she met her future husband, Walter E. (Gene) Johnson.

Prior to her marriage, Shirley attended White Cross Hospital School of Nursing in Columbus, OH. After their marriage, Shirley and Gene moved to Marion, IN, where they eventually welcomed two daughters. When their daughters were both school age, Shirley pursued a teaching degree at Marion College (now Indiana Wesleyan University), graduating magna cum laude. She later earned a master’s degree in education from Ball State University. For about 25 years, Shirley taught 4th and/or 5th grade at Westview Elementary School in Jonesboro, IN.

After their retirements, Shirley and Gene moved to Dayton, OH, to reside nearer their daughter Anne.

 Shirley and Gene enjoyed playing bridge, square dancing, walking, biking, and travel. They were members of Resurrection Lutheran Church in Marion, IN. Shirley was a leader in all of her organizations: She led teachers’ negotiations; coached a girls’ softball team at Westview Elementary; served on the board of the YWCA in Marion, IN; taught Sunday school at Resurrection Church; and led line dancing at the Marion Grant County Senior Center.

 Shirley is survived by her two daughters, Rebecca Johnson (Bill Destler) and Anne Johnson (Dick Gregg), as well as by four grandchildren: Walter Destler, Nathan Destler (Marija Pushko), Helen Gregg (Ryan Huffman), and Katie Gregg. Last but not least, she was companioned to the end by her faithful and beloved cat, Charlie.

 Shirley’s family would like to extend special thanks for the caring services of Day City Hospice and the Lilac Trace neighborhood of Enclave of Springboro.

As the spouse of a Navy veteran, Shirley has chosen to join Gene in being buried at sea. A memorial service will be held on Nov. 17 at 11:00 am at Routsong Funeral Home, 81 North Main Street, Centerville, OH 45459.

In lieu of flowers, please send contributions to your favorite animal charity.