Shirley Ann Johnson

Shirley Ann Johnson died unexpectedly at Mercy Hospital on March 12, 2024 in Durango, CO at the age of 82. Shirley is survived by her children Eric, Thorsten (Ann), Leif; grandsons Leo and Phoenix Johnson, she is preceded in death by her parents Ernest & Mildred Bjorkman and her husband Richard Johnson.

Shirley was born on September 22, 1941 in Chicago, IL. She graduated from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL in 1962. She married her college sweetheart Richard Johnson in 1963. She and Richard lived in Moline, IL from 1963 to 1980 where they were active at First Lutheran Church. In 1980, they relocated to Huntsville, AL for Richard’s job with the U.S. Army.

Shirley was a devoted daughter, wife, mother and grandmother. She faithfully raised her three sons in a loving and nurturing home.  Shirley, along with her husband Richard, were dedicated caregivers to their son Eric for over 50 years, and to her mother Mildred, who reached nearly 102 years old, for almost 10 years.

Shirley excelled in a variety of artwork and crafts from stained glass and beading to making dresses and clothing, including making her children creative and detailed Halloween costumes. Shirley was active for many years in the Embroiderer's Guild in Huntsville, AL.

Shirley was an active member of St. Mark’s Lutheran Church in Huntsville, AL. She put her beading skills to work making Chrismons for Sunday school children to receive during Christmas, volunteering for vacation bible school and serving as a kitchen angel for the free spirits ministry by helping prepare home cooked meals. Shirley also enjoyed being a member of the hiking group where annual trips to the Smokies were wrought with hiking, adventure, and wildlife.

A memorial service celebrating her life will be held later this year. Memorial gifts may be made to St. Mark’s Lutheran Church Youth Ministries at 200 Longwood Dr SE. Huntsville, AL 35801.