Judith Kay Johnson, 80, of Morrison, IL, died Wednesday, August 28, 2024, at her home.
Judith was born March 29, 1944, in Morrison, to Fred and Winnie (Tenboer) Pruis. She received her early education in Lincoln School, a one-room country schoolhouse, and graduated from Morrison High School in 1962. She went on to attend Illinois State University in Normal, IL, earning her Bachelor’s degree in 1966. That same year, she married Dick Cassens, with whom she had two daughters, Melissa and Marna. They later divorced. On June 28, 1986, she married her best friend, Aaron Lee Johnson, at Morrison United Methodist Church. Judy dedicated 28 years of her life to teaching, primarily 4th grade students. After retiring, she continued to serve her community through her involvement with the Odell Library Friends, as well as being a Girl Scout leader. She was a devoted member of her church: she actively participated as a Choir member, Junior Choir Director, and Sunday School Teacher. She was a Confirmation mentor at First Lutheran Church in Prophetstown, IL. During her free time, Judy enjoyed reading, tackling jigsaw puzzles, and solving sudoku. Cooking and baking brought her great joy, as did discovering new recipes to try. Judith cherished her family and loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include her husband, Aaron; daughters, Melissa Cassens-Denning of Prophetstown, Marna (Shaun) Cassens-McCrary of Morrison, and Christina (Justin) Johnson-Grater of Pendleton, IN; son, Jeremiah (Shanelle) Johnson of Scottville, MI; ten grandchildren, Courtney (Brad) Kahn, Brandy (Justin) Haring, Scotty Denning, Jessy Denning, Lauren Grater, Madeline Grater, Isaac Johnson, Spencer Johnson, Samuel Johnson, and Asher Johnson; six great-grandchildren, Kaylee Denning, Reese Haring, Caden Haring, Memphis Denning, E.C. and A.C.; brothers, Rev. Al (Nancy) Pruis of Eagan, MN, and Eddie (Deb) Pruis of Davenport, IA; brother-in-law, Allen Brandt; sister-in-law, Marj (Al) Newcomer.
She was preceded in death by her parents; sister, Janice Brandt.
A Memorial Visitation and Memorial Service will be held at a later date.
Cremation rites have been accorded.
The Morrison Chapel of the Bosma-Renkes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
A private Family Graveside Service will take place at Grove Hill Cemetery, Morrison, IL, officiated by Pastor Chelsey Weech of First Lutheran Church in Prophetstown, IL.
Memorials have been established to First Lutheran Church in Prophetstown, IL, and Odell Library in Morrison, IL.