Barbara Johnson
5/26/1933 - 6/30/2025
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Obituary For Barbara Johnson
Barbara Ann (Black) Johnson, born on May 26, 1933, in Derby, Connecticut, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love and dedication to her family and community. She was the cherished daughter of Edward and Lillian Black and the third of six siblings, with one brother passing away shortly after childbirth. Barbara spent her formative years in Ansonia, Connecticut, where she graduated from Ansonia High School in 1950. She spent the next year in Connecticut with her parents and then in January of 1952, she moved to Washington, DC where she stayed for a short time with her cousin, Shirley Coleman.
Shortly after moving to Washington, Barbara's life took a romantic turn when her cousin Harold, Shirley’s brother, introduced her to William L. Johnson, Jr., affectionately known as "Bill." They met in February, the day after Bill returned home from the military. Despite their unique introduction, Bill confidently declared his intention to marry Barbara, to which she simply replied, "okay." They were married on August 30, 1952 and this marked the beginning of a lifelong partnership.
Barbara and Bill embarked on their journey together in Washington, DC and then relocated to Maryland, where they bought their first home. They were both employed at the Library of Congress at this time. Their family began to grow with the birth of their first child, William L. Johnson III, on January 2, 1954. Four years later, they welcomed their daughter, Laurie, expanding their family to four. In October of 1957, while pregnant with Laurie, the Johnsons returned to Connecticut, where they would raise their children and build their lives.
The family continued to grow with the arrival of Valerie Lynn, ten years after Laurie, and Neil Edward, two years later. Barbara and Bill devoted much of their lives to nurturing their four children in Connecticut. Barbara's professional journey included significant roles at the Yale Child Study Center, where she served as the assistant to Dr. James P. Comer, a renowned child psychologist, and later at the United States Postal Service, from which she retired in 1997. Before officially retiring, Bill and Barbara visited Barbara’s brother, Ralph “Howie” and his wife, Fannie, in Charleston, SC, and liked the area so much that they bought their retirement home there and chose to lay down new roots.
Barbara's life was enriched by her love for God, family, her commitment to volunteering at church and in the community, and her passion for reading, camping, traveling, and cruising. Her warmth and generosity touched many lives.
Barbara leaves behind her beloved children: William L. Johnson III (Mary Ann), Laurie Keitt (Larry), Valerie Hicks (Joe), and Neil Johnson (Kristen); three grandchildren, Nathan Johnson, Hannah Johnson and Noah Johnson; her sister, Janice Gore (Michael); two sisters-in-law, Camille Collins and Lois Marcus; one brother-in-law, Maurice “Johnny” Johnson (Elsie) and a host of nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, Edward and Lillian Black; her devoted husband, William L. Johnson Jr.; her grandson, Jason Branham; and her siblings, William Black, Ralph “Howie” Black, Ross Black and Lillian Coles.
Barbara's memory will forever be cherished by those who knew and loved her. Her life was a testament to the power of love, family, and community.
INFORMAL VISITATION
None
CELEBRATION OF LIFE
Wednesday, July 9, 2025 at 12:00 Noon, The Low Country Mortuary
INTERMENT
Live Oak Memorial Gardens
Services
Funeral Service
12:00 PM - 02:00 PM
Interment
02:00 PM - 02:30 PM
Photos & Video
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Tributes
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Rachel Burd planted 5 trees in memory of Barbara Johnson . - 07/08/2025
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Mondresa Davis sent Heavenly Heights Bouquet for Barbara Johnson - 07/08/2025
Sending healing, and hugs to your family during this difficult time. Mondresa Davis (Troutman Pepper Locke, LLP)
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PAMELA LYN sent Tender Tribute for Barbara Johnson - 07/07/2025
You Will Be Missed. Thank You For Everything. Lots of Love, David & Pamela Lyn
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Janice B. Gore sent Sympathy Spray for Barbara Johnson - 07/06/2025
Barbara Johnson Beloved Sister. Will miss you forever. Love, Janice and Mike
Condolences
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07/29/2025
My condolences to the family and friends of Barbara Johnson. Mahy God continue to comfort and strengthen the family during this time of bereavement. Continue to focus on the loving and cherished memories of Barbara and may they comfort her family and friends. A comforting promise is stated at Psalm 147:3 "He heals the brokenhearted; He binds up their wounds."
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07/09/2025
My condolences to Valerie and family. All is well. Love you. Catherine Flippen
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07/09/2025
Although we do not mourn as those in the world who have no hope, we send our beloved Ms. Barbara home to Our Lord with a mix of laughter and tears because her strength, generosity and joy will be remembered and missed. Sending love and prayers of comfort and peace to the Johnson family and all those touched by her life. Love now and forever, Dawn (Jordan and Jared)
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07/09/2025
Laurie, Please accept my sincere condolences for the passing of your mother. Barbara was a special friend to me. We laughed together and we cried together. We went out to eat and so much enjoyed that time and conversation together. Barbara was a "Special" lady. She gave so much of her time and talent to others, She loved her children, grandchildren, so many family members and her friends. To her children, I hold you in my heart and in my prayers. I send my love and prayers to her dear sister, Janice. The last few times that I spoke with Barbara the only thing she talked about was Bill. She loved him so much and missed him more than I can say, She prayed to be with him again. Well her prayers were answered. She and her Bill are Happy In Heaven Together. I'm Happy For Them! God Bless Them❤️🙏🏼
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07/02/2025
My sincere condolences sent to my cousins and family. Aunt Barbara was such a nice and respected member of the family. She was always helping and encouraging others. I know she is being embraced in heaven by Uncle Bill and other family members.
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