Diana Enstrom Johnson

Diana Enstrom Johnson passed away peacefully on the evening of Thursday, February 19, 2026, at the age of 86. Born on November 19, 1939, in Chicago, Illinois, she was the daughter of Gustav Mauritz Enstrom and Eleanore Larson Enstrom. Diana grew up in Chicago and graduated from Augustana College in 1960 with a degree in early childhood education. She later earned a master’s degree in interior design, reflecting her lifelong passion for design and creativity.

The summer before her senior year of college, she met Philip Walter Johnson while they were working together. They married in 1960 and lived in several cities before settling in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where Phil’s work kept them for 15 years. In 1982, Phil accepted a new job and the family moved to New Orleans, Louisiana, where Diana would make her home for the next 44 years. Together they raised their four children. Diana and Phil celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary shortly before his passing.

Diana loved New Orleans and devoted herself to restoring the family’s historic Victorian home in the Lower Garden District. She took great pride in the many years she spent transforming the home. Her pink rose bushes and large Japanese magnolia tree were particular sources of joy. She enjoyed hosting gatherings, decorating for every holiday, and sharing her home with family and friends.

Her creativity and eye for beauty extended beyond her home. She owned Antebellum Antiques on Magazine Street and later Garden District Needleworks, where she shared her love of antiques, needlework, and fiber arts with the community. An accomplished artist and craftswoman, Diana enjoyed many forms of fiber arts. She completed countless needlework projects throughout her life, while determinedly beginning many more.

She was known for her sharp wit, strong will, and wry sense of humor. Diana believed there was a right way to do things and was never shy about saying so. She cared deeply for her children and grandchildren and was their constant supporter, always encouraging them to aim high and do their very best.

Diana was preceded in death by her parents, Mauritz and Eleanore; her husband, Philip; her daughter, Sarah; and her son, Eric. She is survived by her daughters, Chris Daugherty and Katy Tanet; her grandchildren, Patrick, Hailey, Victoria, Erica, Nicholas, and Gabrielle; and her great-grandchildren, Oscar, Daisy, Leo, and Nico.

Diana’s family would like to thank all her caregivers at St. Anna’s who helped her over the past few years.

A celebration of Diana’s life will be held at Grace Lutheran Church, 5800 Canal Blvd., New Orleans, LA 70124 on Saturday, March 21, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. Interment will be private.