Dorothy Rae Johnson, 95, passed away peacefully on February 19, 2024, at Bishop Drumm Retirement Center in Johnston, IA.
Her remarkable life touched the hearts of many. Born on January 23, 1929, in Ladora, Iowa, Dorothy embarked on a journey filled with love, adventure, and unwavering faith. She shared her life with Billy Warren Johnson, whom she married on October 4, 1947. Together, they explored Europe, crisscrossed the United States, and spent countless winters basking in the warmth of southern Texas. Their enduring love was a testament to commitment and companionship. Professionally, Dorothy served as a recovery room nurse at Mercy Hospital, retiring at the age of 59. Her compassionate care left an indelible mark on the lives she touched. Her faith in Jesus Christ anchored her soul. As a dedicated member of Westover Baptist Church, she drew strength from prayer and community. Through life’s trials and celebrations, her unwavering faith sustained her.
A devoted mother, Dorothy poured her love into raising her two sons, James (Jim) and Jeffrey (Jeff). As a grandmother, she found immense joy in her granddaughters, Rachael and Samantha, and Taylor (T.J.), her grandson. In her later years, she delighted in being a great-grandmother to Aaron (15), Melanie (13), Chloe (13), Ezrah (7), Gracen (5), Lyla (3), and Emme Rae (15 months). Dorothy is survived by her sons, Jim Johnson (Sherry) of Glassport, PA, and Jeff Johnson (Micki) of Clive, IA; her three grandchildren: Rachael Quaas of Cedar Rapids, IA; Samantha Crawford (Kyle) of Waukee, IA; and Taylor (T.J.) Johnson of Grimes, IA; and her seven great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her parents, her beloved husband Bill, and her two sisters. Her legacy lives on through the love she shared, the faith she held, and the memories etched in the hearts of those who knew her.
A celebration of Dorothy’s life will take place on Friday, February 23, 2024, at 11:00 AM at Westover Baptist Church in Des Moines, followed by a luncheon. The burial service will be held at 1:30 PM at Chapel Hill Gardens cemetery in Des Moines. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Westover Baptist Church in Dorothy’s honor.
