Mary L. Johnson, 86, of Galesburg, Illinois died 2:52 p.m. Monday, March 30, 2020 at her home surrounded by her family.
She was born September 2, 1933 in Macomb, Illinois to Lawrence Y. and Mattie E. (Rhoades) VeNard.
Surviving are two sons, Dannie E. (and Jeanie) Pickel of Galesburg and Lawrence Johnson of Galesburg, a daughter, Cynthia S. Powelson of Galesburg, two brothers, Leland E. VeNard of Abingdon, Illinois and George L. (and Maryanne) VeNard of Beloit, Wisconsin, two sisters, Patsy J. (and Dale) Kempster of Abingdon and Rebecca M (and Weldon) Cooper of Yates City, Illinois, seven grandchildren, five great grandchildren, one great-great grandchild and one on the way. She was preceded in death by her parents, a daughter, Mary Christine Shores, a brother, Danny VeNard, and two sisters, Anna L. Moore and Margaret Arnold.
Mary worked for Maytag Corporation in Galesburg for 25 years and retired in 1997. She enjoyed the outdoors with feeding the birds and squirrels and doing yard work. She loved her pets, enjoyed playing games, and making videos of birthdays to share with her family. Mary was a collector of angels and lighthouses. Most of all, she loved spending time with her family. A message from her family reads “Don’t forget that maybe, you’re the lighthouse in someone’s storm”.
As Mary requested, cremation will be accorded. No service or visitation is planned at this time but a Celebration of Life will be announced at a later date. Memorials may be made to Guardian Angels Humane Society or American Cancer Society. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral Directors and Cremation Service Galesburg Chapel is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.h-p-w.com.
