Vivian Worthington Johnson

Vivian Worthington Johnson, aged 101, passed peacefully into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior on October 10, 2021. She was first born born of Andrew and Jennie Ball. She grew up in Jackson, graduating from Jackson High in 1938. She immediately went on to Foote Hospital’s Registered Nurse program.

With WWll starting, she joined the Naval Nurse Corps. She started at Great Lakes Naval Station, then to the west coast in Corvallis, Oregon. It was there she met a handsome young Marine Corpsman, Howard Worthington. They were married on June 10, 1945 at her home church, Calvary Methodist, in Jackson.

Moving to East Lansing and living in the Quonset buildings, MSU brought in for the returning Vets, they started their family of Sidney, Karen, Bruce and Jane. Howard graduated from MSC in 1948. They eventually moved to Lansing. Tragically, Howard passed away in 1957, leaving Vivian with four young kids, aged 10 to 6 months. This is where she earned her loving moniker, “The Commander”.

She was an amazing mother faced with the heavy onus of being the sole supporting parent of four young children. She simply looked at her options and made a plan of action. Many times, she gave credit to Mary McClure, someone hired as a babysitter, but turned into a lifesaver for all the time and effort she brought to the table. Mrs. McClure stayed with us from 1957-1969.

In 1977, Vivian married Dr. Kenneth Johnson. She continued to work until Dr. Johnson retired his practice in the early 80’s after 55 years of practice. They were able to enjoy many years of travel and entertaining until Dr. Johnson’s death in 1989. Vivian has been active with church activities, bowling and golf. Her last time bowling was at age 96! Vivian was the epitome of the strong, independent woman. She may not have seen it as such, but she took responsibility for her 4 children and bringing them to be strong adults.

She is preceded in death by her Husband, Howard; her second Husband, Kenneth Johnson; her son, Sid; daughter, Karen; and her Step-son, David (Mitzi). She Leaves behind to celebrate her life, her son, Bruce; daughter, Jane; and step-son, Richard Johnson; daughter-in-law Lezlee; son-in-law, Edward Goggins; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews. A memorial service will be held at 11:00am Friday, October 29, 2021 at Central United Methodist Church.