Abby Ann Arthur Johnson

Abby Ann Arthur Johnson, a beloved wife, mother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on November 16, 2024, at the age of 83. Born in Duluth, Minnesota, on November 11, 1941, Abby was the daughter of Una and Abner Arthur. She grew up with her sister, Linda, and brother, Jack, in a close-knit family that instilled in her a deep appreciation for love, learning, and exploration.

Abby’s intellectual journey was as vibrant as her personality. She earned a Bachelor of Arts from Gustavus Adolphus College, a Master of Arts from the University of Kansas, and a PhD in English from the University of Illinois. Her passion for education and thought was matched only by her love of writing and poetry, which she pursued throughout her life.

On June 12, 1965, Abby married the love of her life, Ronald Mayberry Johnson. Their 59 years together were filled with mutual respect, laughter, and a shared love for adventure. The couple had three sons: Adam, Alex, and Karl, who were her pride and joy. Abby’s family meant the world to her, and her legacy lives on in her children, grandchildren, and the countless lives she touched with her warmth and wisdom.

Abby’s love of the arts was a central part of who she was. A gifted and passionate creator, she found joy in many artistic pursuits, including music, photography, and writing. She studied photography at a local community college, and her home studio became a place of creativity where she captured the world through her lens. Abby’s deep love of music extended to playing multiple instruments, and she was always moved by the power of sound, feeling music in her soul as much as she heard it. Whether through her photography, music, or writing, Abby was forever expressing her creative spirit.

Her adventurous side led her to travel widely, and she was especially fond of her time living in Norway and Denmark. Abby was proud of her Scandinavian roots, and these countries held a special place in her heart. She was an avid traveller, always eager to explore new places, people, and cultures. Her love for wildlife, nature, and her home garden brought her a sense of peace, as did the companionship of her beloved dogs and cats.

In addition to her many creative pursuits, Abby enjoyed quirky hobbies like juggling and unicycling, showing her playful nature and zest for life. She embraced every challenge with enthusiasm and a smile, always finding joy in the simple pleasures.

Abby’s kindness, creativity, and adventurous spirit touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. She will be remembered not only for her intellectual achievements and artistic talents but for her unwavering love for her family, her boundless curiosity, and her ability to find beauty and joy in the world around her.

Abby is survived by her loving husband, Ron; their three sons, Adam, Alex, and Karl; her two beautiful granddaughters, Maddie and Izabella; her sister, Linda; her brother, Jack; and many nieces, nephews, and extended family members

A funeral service for Abby will be held Monday, November 25, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at St. Mark's Lutheran Church, 5800 Backlick Rd, Springfield, VA 22150. Following the funeral service will be a committal service from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Congressional Cemetery, 1801 E St SE, Washington, DC 20003. https://www.youtube.com/@StMarks-ELCA