Shirley Johnson

Shirley was born August 25, 1933, in Chatham, IL, the daughter of Louis and Norma (Works) Spoor. She married Lark H. Johnson on July 2, 1952, in Rochester, IL; he preceded her in death on February 3, 2014.

Shirley was the eldest of six children and graduated from Rochester High School. She adored children, so as her own children grew up and started their own families, her grandchildren and all their friends affectionately referred to her as “Grandma Shirley.” Grandma Shirley was more than a great grandma; she was a great grandmother and a great-great grandmother. Her grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren were her pride and joy. She was most proud of experiencing five precious generations of love. Shirley thrived in her senior years and enjoyed serving as VP of the council at her nursing home. She loved watching the birds, squirrels, and other little animals in the yard. She enjoyed word searches and playing Bingo, and ultimately lived life to the fullest.

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents and sisters, Barbara Johnson and Sandi Birkett.

She is survived by her daughter, Debb (J.C.) Severs of O’Fallon, IL; son, Allen “Al” (Debbie) Johnson of Rochester; grandchildren, Jaime Lee, Ryan (Liz) Lee, and Adam Johnson; five great-grandchildren; and three great-great-grandchildren; siblings, Ronnie (Janet) Spoor of New Berlin, Bonnie (Guy) Hinrichs of Loami, IL, and Bob (Rita) Spoor of Normal; very special brothers-in-law, Daryl Johnson of Loami, IL and Jim Birkett of Sherman, IL; and several nieces and nephews.

Visitation and Funeral Ceremony: The family will receive friends from 11:00 a.m. until 12:45 p.m. on Tuesday, April 25, 2023, at Butler Funeral Home-Chatham, 8855 State Route 4, Chatham, IL. A memorial service will follow at 1:00 p.m. with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating.

Burial will follow at Chatham Memorial Cemetery.