Virginia Hanggi Johnson

Virginia Lee Hanggi Johnson, known as” Pep” by her Birmingham friends, died at home on Wednesday, February 8, 2023, surrounded by her family. She was a member of St. Mark’s the Evangelist Catholic Church.

She was born March 10, 1937, in Shreveport, LA, to the late Ollie and Herbert Hanggi, and later moved to Little Rock, AR, where she attended Mount St. Mary’s Academy. There she excelled in piano performance, which was the beginning of a lifelong love of music of every genre.

Virginia was preceded in death by her husband, Robert M. Johnson.

A loving and devoted mother, Virginia is survived by her children, Laura Stolzer Bettis (David), Cynthia Stolzer Blackstone (Paul), Barret Johnson Duchock (John), Jennifer Johnson Gamble (David), William “Bill” Johnson (Terri), and Judy Johnson McLaughlin (Doug). She also leaves 14 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. She was very close to her brother, the late Herbert T. Hanggi, Jr.,of Memphis, TN, and her brother, Bob Hanggi of Knoxville,TN.

A natural entertainer, Virginia enjoyed playing her piano, as well as sing-alongs with family and friends. Her other interests included oil painting, gardening, and her many dogs.. With a generous spirit, she extended warmth to everyone around her. She was their encourager and cheerleader. Her family agrees that they would not be where they are today without her constant reassurance.

There will be a private Mass on (date and time to be determined later) at Virginia's church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association chapter in your community or the charity of your choice.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.SouthernHeritageFunerals.com for the Johnson family.