In Gratitude for the Life of Julia Johnson

"We give thanks that we belong, body and soul, in life and in death, not to ourselves but to our faithful savior Jesus Christ." Heidelberg Catechism, 1563

Julia Johnson (1947 - 2025)

Julia Annette Johnson, age 77, of Forney, Texas, went to be with her Lord and Savior on February 21, 2025, while under home hospice care. 

Julia was born in Jackson, Mississippi on November 12, 1947, the second of three children, to her parents Joe Lynn and Nina “Norine” Ford (née Franklin). Julia graduated from Hillcrest High School in Dallas, TX in 1965 and immediately went to work for Braniff International as a stewardess. Recognition of her intelligence, ambition and hard work led her to become one of just three women working in an administrative role in their corporate office until their closure in 1982. After Braniff’s closure, Julia moved into the insurance business and was the co-founder and Vice President of Select Brokerage Services, until the creation of her own company later in life, JAJ Brokerage. Here, she continued to serve her clients until her passing.

As impressive as Julia was in her career, her true calling was that of service. Julia was a formidable force for good throughout her life and truly inspired all who had the privilege of knowing her. Julia's passion in life was serving others. While she was an active member of her local church, Julia found her place as a member of Lions International. In her 34 years of service as a Lion, Julia was able to make an impact at all levels through countless initiatives that benefited others throughout her local community, her beloved State of Texas, and the world.  

Julia's journey as a Lion started with the Dallas Town North Lions club in June of 1991. Through her good service, Julia immediately began serving in many roles in the club including Service Chair, LCIF Coordinator, First and Second Vice President and eventually President. During this time, she became very active in Lions District 2-X1. She served in many critical District roles, including multiple years as Zone Chair, First and Second Vice District Governor, and District Governor from 2000-2001. As District Governor, Julia presided over 60 Lions Clubs within the DFW Metroplex and was known as one of the most successful Governors in District 2-X1 history. It was during Julia's term that District 2-X1 was first presented with the opportunity to host the Lions Sports Extravaganza, which would become one of her most influential service opportunities.  Over the past 25 years, the Lions Sports Extravaganza has given thousands of visually impaired youths from all over the United States the opportunity to compete in track and field events and be presented with medals while standing on Olympic-style podiums. In keeping with the Lions Club mission to improve the lives of the visually impaired, Julia served several years as a Director on the Board of the Lions Sight and Tissue Foundation and two years as President. 

Julia’s personal relocation to Forney naturally led to her to join the Forney Lions Club, where her time, energy and talents were shared as Service Chair, LCIF Coordinator, First and Second Vice President, and President for multiple years. During her time with the Forney Lions Club, Julia chaired the Angel Tree initiative, which, under her leadership, made certain that more than 300 children each year would experience the joy of Christmas. Her many years of service and leadership with the Julien C Hyer Lions Youth Camp, a division of the Lions International Youth Exchange, earned her the designation of International Ambassador. Over the years, Julia generously hosted more than 40 students from around the world in her home during the five-week summer program. She was also very involved with the local LEO club, inspiring two of her own grandchildren to become active participants.

While dedicating her life to humble service was her only intention, during her time as a Lion, Julia received many honors and awards, including the prestigious International Leadership Medal (2001) and the Melvin Jones Fellowship recognition (2002). In 2008-2009 Julia had the prestigious honor of serving as a President of the Past District Governors of Texas Lions. That same year Julia was the recipient of the International President’s Medal (2009). Julia embodied the Lion’s motto “We Serve” every day of her life.

Julia’s enthusiasm and fortitude were contagious in everything she did. A real-life Wonder Woman, she somehow found the time to explore her passion for travel and was the dedicated matriarch of her beloved family. Affectionately known as “Nana” throughout her community, Julia was front and center, cheering on her grandchildren and their teammates at every event. She loved and supported her family with an unparalleled devotion. In all that she did, Julia was a servant leader, an advocate for those in need, a trusted colleague, a dear and loyal friend, and most importantly, a cherished mother and Nana. She was a truly remarkable individual that will be incredibly missed.

Julia was preceded in death by her parents, her older sister Carol Lynn Woods, and her younger brother Gary Lynn Ford.  She is survived by three sons; Brian Keith Johnson and wife Sheryl of Tawakoni, TX, Vance Edward Johnson and wife Kristie of Rowlett, TX, and Jason Kelly Johnson and wife Amanda of Forney, TX; nine grandchildren, Chase, Haley, McKayla, Savannah, Kaitlin, Brianna and Hunter Johnson, Jennifer Lovett, and Deva Austin; two great-grandchildren, Korie and Logan Lovett; and numerous loving nieces and nephews.

Visitation was held from 6:00 pm - 8:00 pm on Thursday March 6th, 2025, preceding a memorial service honoring Julia on Friday March 7th, 2025 at 10:00am in the Community Center at First Presbyterian Church of Forney. The Service is archived on the church’s YouTube channel. A private family graveside service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations or memorials may be sent to https://gofund.me/5a6b02e4 to assist Julia’s family with Celebration of Life expenses and settlement of her estate.  Every contribution honors her memory and ensures her legacy lives on.

Obituary written by Amanda Johnson