Patricia Tottenham Johnson

Pat was born on April 11, 1947 in Mineola, Texas to Ruth Parris Tottenham and Edwin Tottenham. From an early age her leadership, determination, and joyful spirit were evident. She graduated from Brenham High School where she served in several leadership roles, including Drum Major of the high school band. She attended The University of Texas at Austin and graduated in 1969 with a degree in Home Economics and Interior Design. While at UT, she was a proud member of the Chi Omega sorority and served as a Golden Heart of Sigma Phi Epsilon. During these years, she also spent treasured summers as a counselor at Camp Mystic, where she developed a deep appreciation for the beauty of nature and the outdoors.

While at college Pat met the love of her life, George “Buddy” Whitfield Johnson III. They were married on August 22, 1970 and shared 55 devoted years together. Together they built a life rooted in faith, love, and unwavering commitment. They started their life together in Houston while Buddy completed his postgraduate education and Pat worked in interior design and residential real estate. After 15 years in Houston, Pace Foods brought the family to San Antonio where they made their permanent home.

Pat devoted herself wholeheartedly to raising her two active sons, Matthew and Bradley. She was the steady heartbeat of her home, the organizer, encourager, faithful prayer warrior, and ever present source of strength and support. At Churchill High School, she served as PTA President, led the band booster club, and helped establish a fine arts program in NEISD. She remained actively involved in her sons’ schools and led an initiative that resulted in the passage of state legislation supporting the safety of public schools.

A faithful servant and generous volunteer, Pat gave countless hours to causes close to her heart. She served joyfully in many roles at First Presbyterian Church of San Antonio offering her time, gifts, and steadfast faith. She was a member of The University of Texas Chancellor’s Council Executive Committee, the UT College of Education Advisory Council, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Daughters of the Republic of Texas. She approached every commitment with exceptional excellence and infectious enthusiasm.

Pat embraced life fully with charisma, warmth, and a bit of spunk. She was blessed with many dear friends from every chapter of her life, each of whom brought her great joy and laughter. She and Buddy enjoyed traveling together and especially treasured time at their place on Lake LBJ. An avid fisherwoman, Pat proudly baited her own hook and reeled in her own catch, whether in Rockport, Port Aransas, or the lake. As a devoted Longhorn fan, she rarely missed a UT football game.

Above all, Pat was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. She was the spiritual foundation of her family, gently guiding them in faith and modeling a life anchored in Christ. Her love was steady, her prayers constant, and her presence a gift. She is survived by her beloved husband, Buddy; her sons, Matt Johnson and Brad Johnson and his wife, Lisa; and her three treasured grandchildren, Field, Margaret Ann, and Clara Johnson, who brought her immeasurable joy. She delighted in attending their activities and rarely missed an opportunity to be present in their lives.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Ruth and Edwin Tottenham. In addition to her immediate family, she is survived by her brother, Terry Tottenham and his wife, Sue; sisters-in-law Carol Allen and her husband, Phillip, Shelly Johnson, and Kathy Johnson; and many beloved nieces, nephews, and dear friends.

Pat lived with deep joy, unwavering purpose, and abiding faith. Her laughter was contagious, her smile radiant, and her love for Jesus evident in the way she led her family and welcomed others. Though she will be profoundly missed, her family rests in the assurance of God’s promise: “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Her legacy of faith, love, and steadfast devotion will continue for generations to come.

A Celebration of Pat’s Life will be held on Thursday, February 26, at 1:00pm, at First Presbyterian Church, 404 N. Alamo Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205, with Rev. Dr. Bob Fuller officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of San Antonio, Christian Assistance Ministry, or a charity of your choice.