Caroline Roberta Duncan Johnson was born 94 years ago in Wichita, to C.H. "Charlie" and Mary Margaret Duncan. She graduated from Wichita High School East in 1941. Her mother required home care and as the oldest daughter she assumed that responsibility. World War II crashed upon her world and her boyfriend William John Johnson, who lived four blocks from Caroline, enlisted in the Army Air Corps. On his furlough, before going overseas, they married. Their life together began three years later. Daughter, Melissa, was born in October 1946 and son, Bill, was born November 1947. Caroline began working at Southwestern Bell during World War II as an operator. She then went to work as a school secretary for 26 years and retired from USD 259 as the Superintendent’s office secretary.
Caroline helped organize the National Secretaries Association and was the National President for the organization. She had been an active member of Woodland United Methodist Church since 1950, where she formed lifelong friendships which enriched her life. Caroline was also involved in Air Capitol Active People, TOPs, Telephone Pioneers, United Methodist Women, and gave book reviews. Her husband, Bill, died May 8th, 1993. He was a ham radio operator (W0AHK) and worked for Southwestern Bell Telephone Company.
Her church is very important in her life. Caroline’s favorite Bible verse is Hebrews 11:1 (Phillips translation)
“Now faith means putting our full confidence in the things we hope for; it means being certain of things we cannot see.”
Caroline is preceded in death by parents, husband of 49 years, Bill, and sisters, Mary Margaret Black and Ruth Ann Elmore. Survived by daughter Melissa (Jim) Gregory and son Bill (Linda); grandchildren Bruce Adams, Derek Johnson and Christina Johnson; great-grandchild Taylor Henry and brother Howard “Bud," Duncan. A Memorial Service will be held on Tuesday, March 13, 2018, 1 pm at Woodland United Methodist Church, 1100 W. 15th St. N., Wichita, Kansas 67203. Memorials can be sent to Woodland United Methodist Church or Harry Hynes Memorial Hospice.
