Judy Ellard Johnson

Judy Ellard Johnson, beloved wife, mother, and cherished friend, passed away on January 25th at the age of 86, surrounded by the family who adored her. Her life was filled with creativity, compassion, and a gentle strength that made everyone around her feel cared for and at ease.

Born on December 30th, 1939, in Austin, Texas, Judy grew up helping her parents at their family restaurant, The Pik-Nik, where she learned the value of hard work and community. She treasured the time she spent outdoors with her father—fishing, exploring, and occasionally skipping school to go hunting together. Summers at her grandmother Mama Jones’ farm in Rockdale, were some of her happiest childhood memories, filled with cousins, laughter, and the simple joys of country life.

After graduating from McCallum High School, Judy began her career at a local bank, a path that eventually led her to meet the love of her life, Milam Johnson. They married on March 31, 1967, and built a beautiful life together, raising three daughters who were the center of Judy’s world. Throughout their 55 years of marriage, Judy’s devotion to her home, her church, and her family remained her greatest joy and her proudest accomplishment.

Judy gave generously of her time and talents at St. Martin’s Lutheran Church, where she served as chair of the decorating committee. She approached every holiday, service, and gathering with her artistic eye and warm heart, transforming the sanctuary into a place that reflected both beauty and welcome.

Later in life, Judy discovered a deep passion for painting and blossomed into a remarkably gifted artist. She delighted in challenging herself with intricate pieces and even mastered some of the most difficult Thomas Kinkade–style replicas, capturing the glow and emotion that made his work so beloved. Painting became a joyful outlet—a way for her to express the creativity that had always lived within her.

Judy is preceded in death by her father, W.D. Ellard; her mother, Opal Marie Jones; and her stepfather, George Ramsey. She is survived by her daughters: Kim Rylander of Abilene, Texas; Amy Milam and her husband, John Milam, of Gulf Breeze, Florida; and Jennifer Johnson of Austin. She also leaves behind her grandchildren Tanner Milam, Miles Moore, and Matthew Moore; her great-granddaughter Olivia Kate Milam; and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Judy’s caregivers, nurses, and the staff at Practical Care Continuum, Senior Services of Austin, and Compassus Hospice for the kindness, patience, and love they showed her over the last several years.

A celebration of Judy’s life will be held on Friday, January 30th at 12:00 p.m. at Weed Corley Funeral Home, 5416 Parkcrest Dr., Austin, Texas, with burial to follow at Austin Memorial Park.

Pallbearers will be John Milam, Tanner Milam, Miles Moore, and Matthew Moore.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the charity of your choice, in honor of Judy’s generous spirit.