Phyllis Joy Johnson

Phyllis Joy Johnson, at the remarkable age of 99, passed away Monday, January 19th, 2026 surrounded by loved ones.

She was born on October 1st, 1926 in Topeka, Kansas, the daughter of Clyde and Mary Landon (Joy). She attended Mayetta public schools and went on to further her education at College of Emporia and Washburn University.

On August 21st, 1949 she married the love of her life, Leonard L. Johnson. Together they had three sons, Steve, Phillip and Timothy. Leonard passed away on February 14th, 2013.

Phyllis was a dedicated mother and spent many years as a para-professional teacher in Topeka 501 school district. In her spare time, Phyllis was an avid reader, active volunteer at the Topeka Rescue Mission for many years and attended The Woods at Wanamaker Nazarene Church. And, although she never took lessons, she played the piano and organ at church and at many other events for many years.

Survivors include her son, Stephen (Dee) of Topeka, grandchildren, Ryan (Nicole) Johnson, Keith (Melissa) Johnson, and Jeff (Kim) Goodnow, as well as 8 great-grand children, all of whom will miss her very much.

She was proceeded in death by her parents, Clyde and Mary Landon, 2 sons, Phillip and Timothy Johnson, and brother, Warren Landon.

A funeral service will be held on Monday, January 26th, 2026 at 10:00AM at Penwell Gabel Funeral Home, 1321 SW 10th Avenue, Topeka, KS 66604, with pastor Dr L.D. Holmes officiating. Interment will immediately follow at Historic Topeka Cemetery, 1601 SE 10th Avenue, Topeka, Kansas 66607.

The funeral service will be live streamed, to view, please click the following link: Phyllis Johnson Funeral Service Livestream

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made in Phyllis’s name to the Alzheimer’s Association. 

Phyllis’s memory will live on within the hearts of many who had the privilege of knowing her.

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