Catherine “Joan” Johnson, 94, of Marion, passed away at 12:20 am on Sunday, June 14, 2026, at Wyndmoor of Marion in Marion. She was born in Sweetser, Indiana, on Sunday, February 21, 1932, to Paul and Emma (Calvin) Drook.
Catherine graduated from Marion High School. She later married Richard C. Johnson, who proceeds her. In her younger years, Joan babysat so she could remain home with her children, sometimes caring for as many as twelve kids at once. Her home was always full, always welcoming, and always filled with love. She would do anything for anyone, and her kindness touched every life she encountered.
Joan sewed throughout her life, pouring her creativity and care into every stitch. She loved browsing yard sales, always finding small treasures she could transform into something meaningful. She crafted countless high‑quality baskets and made quilts for each member of her family, gifts that will be cherished for generations. Anything crafty brought her joy, and she approached every project with patience and love.
In her later years, Joan found comfort in reading, working word‑search puzzles, and watching Little House on the Prairie. Every Christmas she prepared trays of homemade candy to share with family and friends, a tradition that reflected her generous and giving spirit. She lived in Alaska during her seventies, embracing adventure even later in life, and she treasured her travels to Japan.
Her faith was the foundation of her life. Joan loved the Lord, listened to hymns daily, and held her church family close to her heart. She was a devoted member of Roanoke Baptist Church, where she found fellowship, purpose, and deep connection. She was selfless, generous, and sacrificial-loving unconditionally and always choosing to give rather than receive.
Survivors include her Son, Robert L (Karen) Parker of Indianapolis, IN, Daughter, Melanie B (Stan) Harper of Marion, IN, Stepchildren; Doug Johnson and Kathy Furnish and their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren; Brother, Forrest (Gloria) Drook, Grandchildren; Cory Parker, Chad (Trista) Parker, Kyle (Lauren) Parker, Alexander (Mary) Harper, Sarah (Mark) Labins, Evan Harper; Great Grandchildren; Jace Parker, Jayden Parker, Ezra Labins, Samuel Labins, Noah Labins, Emerson Parker, Athena Parker, Freya Parker.
She was preceded in death by Father, Paul C Drook; Mother, Emma Lillian Drook; Husband, Richard C. Johnson; Son, Michael R Parker; Stepchildren; Robert Johnson and Gregory Johnson; Brothers, Robert “Bob” Lee Drook, Paul Drook, Jr., David Drook, Richard D. Drook, Sr.; Daughter, Kathleen D Parker; Sisters; Mary Frances Tomlinson, Agnes Smith, Delores Fellows.
The family will receive visitors from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Catherine’s life will begin at 4:00 pm with Pastor Mike Tarr officiating. A private family burial will take place at Marion National Cemetery.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
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