Mary J. Johnson

Mary Joan Brill Johnson went home to be with her Lord and Savior on October 5, 2024, just a few days after her 83rd birthday. Mary was born on September 29, 1941, in Grand Rapids. She attended Sylvan Christian School, Grand Rapids Christian High School, and Calvin College. Mary exemplified generosity and love in many parts of her life, to her family, friends, and as a member of Trinity Lutheran Church. She was a music-lover and enjoyed singing in the choir at Trinity Lutheran Church and attending the Grand Rapids Symphony. She was an avid gardener and loved spending time working in her beautiful perennial garden. Mary's favorite place, other than home, was at the Lake Michigan beach - spending weeks each summer camping in Grand Haven and Pentwater. Mary loved the Lord and her family with all of her heart.

Mary is survived by her two daughters, Karin Johnson Neal and Melissa (Jason) Reiffer; grandchildren, Ashlie Johnson, Charleah Kramer, Nathan, Kayla, and Austin Reiffer; brother, Dick Brill; brothers and sisters-in-law, Kathy Sommers, John Baranyi, and Jim and Kim Johnson; many nieces and nephews; best friends, John and Sue Sullivan, and many dear friends. Mary was preceded in death by her husband, Mark Johnson; infant daughter Julie; parents, John and Martha Brill; parents-in-law, Leon and Hulda Johnson; sisters-in-law, Mary Brill and Marcia Baranyi; and brother-in-law, Dale Sommers.

The family would like to thank the staff of Porter Hills Village for their attentive and loving care for Mary during her six years living there and Emmanuel Hospice for their compassionate care in her final days.

Mary’s family will greet family and friends on Wednesday, October 9, 2024 from 6-8 pm at Metcalf & Jonkhoff Funeral Home, (4291 Cascade Road SE) and on Thursday, October 10 from 10-11 am before the funeral service at the church. The funeral service will be held on Thursday, October 10, 2024 at 11:00 am, at Trinity Lutheran Church (2700 Fulton Street East), with Pastor Kari Fast presiding. Light reception to follow. Memorial contributions may be made to Trinity Lutheran Church.

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