Kathleen "Kathy" Johnson's Obituary
Kathleen R. “Kathy” Johnson
Kathleen R. “Kathy” Johnson passed away unexpectedly at her home at Wamplers Lake on July 24, 2026. Kathy was born May 10, 1947 in Tecumseh, Michigan, the second child of Eugene and Cathryne ( Schultz) Johnson.
She graduated as valedictorian from Brooklyn High School in 1965. She graduated with highest honors from Justin Morrill College at Michigan State University – Summa Cum Laude in 1969. She began her working career then by moving to Washington DC. There, she began as a secretary in a foreign embassy, earned a MBA Degree from George Washington University and worked for decades in the nation’s capitol. She was employed for years as an assistant to the Chairman of the Interior Committee in the US house of Representatives. Through this position, she reported back to the committee on the status of government projects around the world. From there, she worked for many years at the Smithsonian Institution before retiring as Assistant to the Director.
Kathy was a accomplished traveler for both her work and pleasure. She was a lifelong seeker of knowledge that she readily found through travel. She was very pleased when she accomplished her goal of visiting all of the continents.
Kathy is survived by her siblings, Dale and his wife Cherie, and Eric and his wife Pamela; her niece MeChelle Johnson and nephew Jeffrey (Janeane) Johnson; grandnieces, Lillian, Amber, Brooke, Autumn and grandnephew Zackary Johnson; several cousins and close friends from Brooklyn Class of 1965; her traveling companions over many years and friends and associates of her Washington years. Kathy lived her life intentionally and fully and developed her passions for causes and beliefs that she strongly supported. She loved life and its infinite possibilities. She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of sharing in her life.
A celebration of Kathy’s life will be held on Thursday ,August 6, 2026 from 5:00pm – 7:00pm with a Vigil Scripture Service at 7:00pm at Eineder Funeral Homes, Brooklyn, Michigan. Visitation will also be from 10:00am-11:00 am on Friday, August 7, 2026 and her Mass of Christian Burial to follow at 11:00 am at St. Joseph Shrine Catholic Church. Interment will be held at St. Joseph Shrine Cemetery.
Memorial contributions are suggested to Cascades Humane Society or The League of Women Voters. Envelopes are available at the funeral home. Please leave a message of comfort for Kathy’s family or sign her guestbook at https://www.EinederFuneralHomes.com.
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