Carolyn Johnson
Carolyn Johnson, 80, Rochester, was surrounded by her family when she passed away at 2:55 p.m. Friday, Feb. 19, 2021, at her home.
On March 26, 1940, Carolyn Braden was born in Logansport. She was the treasured daughter of Raymond and Naomi Gordon Braden. Growing up she shared her childhood with a brother Lewis. Carolyn was a member of the Aubbeenaubbee Township High School class of 1958.
In Rochester, Carolyn and Gerald L. “Jerry” Johnson were married on July 30, 1965. They shared over 47 years of life’s adventures. Carolyn brought two daughters Terri and Debbie blending their family with the new editions of Robin and Roger.
Carolyn grew up on a dairy farm where she developed a strong work ethic. Gifted with her hands she crocheted beautiful doilies and gifts of warmth like afghans for her family and special friends. She was an amazing cook best known for her crispy fried chicken and steamy hot gravy tacos. No recipes needed, for her special creations. She annually planted flowers around her home to add color to the landscape. Each spring she planted the truck patch garden, then canned and froze the bountiful harvest, including tomatoes and tomato juice. Most savored by her family was the delicious sweet strawberry jam.
As the matriarch of the Johnson family, Grandma Carolyn was proud to oversee four generations. She looked forward to the visits of the grands and the greats. The holidays and special family celebrations were when a lifetime of memories were made.
Left to cherish Carolyn’s memory are three daughters: Robin Williams and her significant other John Albright of Culver; Terri Brooks and husband Bill of Wolcott; Debbie Carman and husband Mike of Colorado; and a son Roger Johnson and wife Jennifer of Rochester; six grandchildren: Chad and Missy Conwell, Jason and Mindy Conwell, Aaron Johnson, Adrienne Johnson, Zachary Boyd and Austin Carman; six great-grandchildren: Ryan, Levi, Josh, Kaleb, Ryder, Rayland and Reagan; and a brother, Lewis Braden and wife Ursula of Leiters Ford.
Preceding Carolyn in death are her parents, Raymond and Naomi Braden; beloved husband Jerry Johnson; an infant son Edward Lee; her heart sister and coffee buddy Angie Lytle Nichols on Dec. 26, 2020; and her canine companion Pepper, the silver Schnauzer.
To Carolyn’s caregivers: Diann, Kelly, Makayla, Katie, Margy and Alivia, thank you for allowing our Mom to enjoy the comfort of her home at the time of her declining health. We’re grateful for the wonderful care and love you conveyed to her.
A celebration of the life of Mrs. Carolyn Johnson will be held at 3 p.m. Feb. 23, at the graveside in the Richland Center IOOF Cemetery. All family and friends are welcome. Pastor Teri White will officiate.