Ila was born on November 18, 1942 in Pensacola, Florida to parents Dan and Willie Mae Brown.
Ila was raised in Pensacola and lived there until she met the love of her life, Bruce Johnson from Texas. They were married in Pensacola and she and Bruce moved to west Texas as fast as they could to begin their life together. They were blessed with two sons, Robert and Jeff. They were very involved with both of their sons' school activities and their home was always open and welcoming to their sons' friends.
Ila believed in hard work and she was an independent entrepreneur for many years. At the age of 80 she owned, managed, and actively worked in three businesses until her health prevented her from continuing.
Ila worked hard but she also liked to play and travel. She was an avid gambler and rarely missed the opportunity to take a gambling trip with Bruce and their many friends. She was lovingly referred to as the "activity director" by Bruce and her gambling buddies. If she was late for one of her planned activities everyone knew to look for her at the 3-card poker table. If no one else was able to join her on a trip, she would go alone because she was going! One of her favorite songs was "I Hope You Dance" - Ila was not one to "sit it out."
Ila had a kind heart and was an excellent cook. Her deviled eggs always received a high bid when she donated them to benefits to help someone in need. She always supported her favorite charities including Meals for the Elderly, Shriners, San Angelo Soup Kitchen, and others. She also contributed to the annual San Angelo stock show premium sale to benefit and reward the kids for their hard work.
Ila will be missed by her family and friends but when we meet again, rest assured we will be greeted with "You owe" before she says hello.
Ila is survived by her husband Bruce Johnson, son Jeff Johnson and wife Delana. She is survived by her sister Francine Winslow and several nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her 4-legged fur babies Duke and Little Bit and grand-dogs Bo and Becca.
Ila was preceded in death by her son, Robert Johnson, her parents, and her brother Delano Brown.
Johnson's Funeral Home, 435 W Beauregard Ave, San Angelo, TX 76903 will host visitation Monday, November 2, 2026 from 5-7 PM. Funeral Service on Tuesday, November 3, 2026 at 1:30 PM in Johnson's Funeral Home Chapel officiated by Alan Murphy. Pallbearers are Blaine Wilson, Clint Kennedy, Eddie Jones, John Cathey, Keith Ward, and Mark Chipman.
Interment will follow the service at Mullins Cemetery.
The family would like to sincerely thank all of Ila's dear friends who have supported her and the family through these last few years. It was a blessing to have each and every one of you and your unwavering support as we navigated through difficult times.
