

Judith Ann Johnson (Kirby), a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, aunt, and friend, passed away peacefully on January 15, 2025, at the age of 76. She will be remembered for the immense love she had for her family and the many ways she touched their lives.
Born on October 21, 1948, Judy grew up with a strong sense of compassion and a deep love for those closest to her. She dedicated her life to nurturing her family, instilling in them the values of kindness, family, and love.
Her greatest joy in life came from the special bond she shared with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Judy had a unique way of making each of them feel deeply loved and cherished, always ready with a kind word, a listening ear, a filling meal, and a warm smile. The stories, music, laughter, and love she shared with them will remain a cornerstone of her legacy.
She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Larry Johnson; parents, Marshall and Willie Kirby; brothers, Bobby, Bruce, R.L, Eugene, Charles, Joe; sisters, Hazel and Wanda.
Judy is survived by her children, Leslie (Allen) Cardwell, and Michael Johnson; sister, Gerrie Brown; cousins, Carol Smith, Kathy Kinser, and Susan Wayman; grandchildren, Sara (Justin) Harker, Amy (Dakota) Gentry, David (Sheila) Johnson, and Jewel (Preston) Cravens; great grandchildren, Malachi, Colten, Ryland Jude, Rosie, Waylen, Draken, Lillie, Tobias and Violet Jude; and a host of extended family and friends who will miss her dearly. Though her passing leaves a deep void, her family finds comfort in knowing her love and spirit will live on through the lives she touched. The family would like to give special thanks to Phillip and DaVita Dialysis at NHC for the love and care shown to Judy in her last days.
A celebration of Judy’s life will be held at Berry Funeral Home, 3704 Chapman Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920 on Sunday, January 19, 2025, with a visitation from 3:00pm to 5:00pm and a funeral service to follow at 5:00pm. Family and friends will go in procession to Mt. Olive cemetery, 2500 Maryville Pike, Knoxville, TN 37920 on Monday, January 20, 2025 for a committal service at 11:00am, Donovan Barr to officiate the services.
Judy’s memory is a lasting gift to her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her love, strength, and devotion will continue to inspire those she leaves behind. All are welcome to attend, but due to illness in the family, the family request that social distancing be practiced during the services. Online condolences and fond memories may be shared with the Johnson family at www.berryfuneralhome.com
Berry Funeral Home
3704 Chapman Highway
Knoxville, TN 37920
865-577-6666
PALLBEARERS
James StewartActive Pallbearer
David JohnsonActive Pallbearer
Preston CravensActive Pallbearer
Dakota GentryActive Pallbearer
Malachi OwenActive Pallbearer
Terry BrownActive Pallbearer
Phillip KirbyHonorary Pallbearer
Michael JohnsonHonorary Pallbearer
SHARE OBITUARYSHARE
v.1.18.0