Myrna Johnson

Myrna Johnson, 86, of Wataga, passed away Saturday, February 4, 2023 at her home.

Myrna was born on October 30, 1936 in Galesburg. She was the daughter of Marvin and M. Maxine (Jones) Essex. She married Merritt Johnson in 1960 at the Knoxville United Methodist Church. Together, they celebrated a life of 63 years. Along with her loving husband, Merritt, Myrna is survived by her son, John (Rebecca) Johnson of Roscoe; three grandchildren, Beth (Nate) Fleming of South Beloit, Aaron Johnson of Roscoe and Zachary (Danielle) Johnson of Aurora, CO; four great-grandchildren, Cambria Pierce, Layla Fleming, Lucas Johnson and Logan Johnson; sister, Maureen (Larry) Braden of Lake Camelot; and many nieces, nephews and cousins. She was preceded in death by her parents; stepfather, Floyd Gustafson; son, Mark; brother, Marvin “Sonny” Essex, and her in-laws Herb (Olga) Tucker.  

 Myrna was a source of strength, love and support for her family and friends. She was an organizer and applied those skills as a secretary for Peoples, the local coal mine, Accounting Systems, Butlers and the Special Education Department for the Galesburg School Dist. She was also an accomplished seamstress sewing dresses, suits, baby clothing for her grandchildren and even doll clothes. She endured life’s challenges and insurmountable grief with her steadfast faith and providing inspirational strength for others through the beautiful music she shared in her 48 years of serving as Choir Director, musician and organist at the Faith Lutheran Church of Wataga. She will be forever known for the dedicated example she displayed in her faith and service to the church. 

Cremation rites will be accorded. A memorial service will be held 12:00 PM Friday, February 10, 2023 at the Faith Lutheran Church, Wataga. Visitation will be held one hour prior to services at the church. A burial of cremated remains will follow services at the Wataga Cemetery. Rev. Katie Gallagher will officiate. Hurd-Hendricks Funeral Homes and Crematory, Oneida have been entrusted with arrangements. Memorials may be made to the Faith Lutheran Church. On-line condolences and/or expressions of sympathy may be sent through www.hurd-hendricksfuneralhome.com.