Mary B. Johanson

Mary Ruth Backues Johanson, 97, passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 17, 2013. She was born August 13, 1916 in Llano, Texas to Joel John and Frankie (Byfield) Backues. Mary was a lifelong Christian and member of the Presbyterian church and proud to be a fourth generation Texan.

On March 28, 1936 she married her high school sweetheart, J. Willard Johanson. Willard enlisted in the U.S. Army Air Corp in 1942 and earned his pilot’s wings. They resided in six states during the four years he served as a pilot trainer of cadets. In 1947 Mary and Willard settled in Houston, Texas until 1983 when they retired to Austin, Texas.

Mary was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 68 years who passed away July 31, 2004, her parents, infant brother Jim Link Backues and beloved brother Joe Raymond Backues.

She is survived by her only child, Jeanne of Georgetown, Texas.

Jeanne wishes to thank the many caregivers at The Lodge at Rocky Hollow. They made it possible for Mary to receive many smiles and hugs the last seven months of her life. Jeanne would also like to thank Odyssey Hospice, especially Sherry and Fran for being such caring angels.

A Memorial Service will be held on Thursday, August 22, 2013 at 11:00 A.M. at Leander Presbyterian Church, 101 N. West Street, Leander, Texas. A reception will follow at the church.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Mary’s name to: Presbyterian Children’s Home, 4407 Bee Cave Road Suite 520, Austin, TX 78746 or a charity of your choice.

Arrangements by Cook-Walden Davis Funeral Home, 2900 Williams Drive, Georgetown, Texas 78628 (512)863-2564.