Lorna Gayle Johnson's Obituary
Lorna Gayle Johnson, 74, passed away peacefully on March 12, 2025, surrounded by love, at her family's residence in Tulsa, Oklahoma.
Born February 11, 1951, in Springfield, Missouri, Lorna was the beloved daughter of Robert and Helen (Smith) Greer. She grew up in Springfield, attending both Central and Parkview High School. Over the years, she called many places home, including Kansas City, Boonville, and Columbia, Missouri, before settling in Tulsa, OK in 2023 to be closer to her daughter while battling a long-term illness with strength and grace.
Lorna's greatest joy in life was her family. She welcomed her first daughter, Ivy, and sons, Charles and Derek, during her time in Kansas City. Later, in Springfield, she gave birth to her youngest daughter, Asia. A devoted and nurturing mother, she raised her four children with love, laughter, and an adventurous spirit. She was known for her playful nature-always ready for a game, a joke, a fun prank, or a spontaneous family outing.
Lorna had a long and fulfilling career. She worked at Meeks Lumber Company in Springfield for nearly 18 years, excelling in computer programming and accounting work. In 2006, she moved to Columbia, where she worked for the Columbia Tribune as an accounts payable and purchasing clerk until her well-earned retirement.
Beyond her professional life, Lorna had a deep passion for the things that brought her joy: bowling, making meals for her family, baking sweets, fishing, genealogy research, and spending time outdoors. A devoted dog lover, she had a special place in her heart for animals. Raised by her paternal grandmother, Pearl, Lorna cherished her own grandchildren, making it her mission to be present for their milestones, school events, and everyday moments.
A woman of unwavering faith, Lorna was an active member and volunteer at Morgan Street Missionary Baptist Church in Boonville, Missouri. Her love for the Lord was evident in her kindness, generosity, and ability to turn strangers into lifelong friends.
Lorna leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion. She is survived by her four children: Ivy Martin (Sullivan), Charles H. Doxley III (Zreiba), Derek Johnson, and Asia Johnson; her cherished grandchildren: Dalaya, Dezmynd, Dayonna, Zhia, Derriah, Derrion, and Zaden; her precious great-grandchildren: Evera and A'lanii; and her sisters, Cherie Greer Bruckman and Joanna Kolbeck. She also held a special place in her heart as "Grandmother" to Donald, Jeremiah, Jericho, Ka'myiluh, Ja'Cori, and Coreyon. Lorna also cherished a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends.
She is reunited in heaven with her husband, James "Bubby/JJ" Joseph Johnson; her parents, Robert and Helen Greer; her siblings, Robert "Butch" Greer and Belinda Owen; and her beloved grandmother, Pearl Blair.
Lorna will be laid to rest beside her husband, James, at Lincoln Memorial Cemetery in Springfield, Missouri. A small graveside service will be held in her honor, as her spirit continues to shine as a guiding light for all who loved her.
Her love, laughter, and unwavering faith will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Morgan Street Missionary Baptist Church, 811 E Morgan St, Boonville, MO 65233 and online through
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