Paula Katherine Johnson
March 29, 1936 – January 28, 2025
Paula Katherine Johnson, 88, of Mesa, Colorado, peacefully passed away at her home on January 28, 2025.
Born on March 29, 1936, in Fruita, Colorado, Paula was the beloved daughter of Paul R. and Elma K. Watkins. She was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Irvin Dennis Johnson, with whom she shared a beautiful life filled with love, family, and faith.
Paula is survived by her four cherished children and their spouses—Michael (Lori), Cheri (Steve), Mark, and Sandy (Craig)—as well as 13 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.
During her youth, Paula enjoyed playing the clarinet in the marching band during junior high and high school. She later worked as a “number please” telephone switchboard operator to pay for her education at Mesa Community College, where she earned an associate’s degree. It was at Mesa Community College that she met the love of her life, Irvin, with whom she would build a lifetime of cherished memories.
After their wedding on May 4th, 1957, Paula dedicated herself fully to her greatest callings—serving Jesus and being a loving wife and mother. She created a warm and welcoming home, filled with the aroma of delicious home-cooked meals and the beauty of her garden. Her time in Germany, where the family lived for two years due to Irvin’s work, was an adventure she embraced. Each Summer in Germany, the family would take a European road trip vacation in their Volkswagen camper van.
Paula’s heart was one of boundless love and hospitality. She had a gift for making everyone feel at home, and her kindness and generosity touched the lives of many. A woman of deep and abiding faith, Paula’s love for Jesus was evident in the way she lived her life. She was an active member of her church and found great purpose in her involvement with The Gideons Auxiliary, sharing God’s word with others.
Paula’s legacy is one of faith, love, and unwavering devotion to her family. She will be deeply missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who knew and loved her.
A celebration of Paula’s life will be held at Molina Baptist Church on Saturday, the 8th of February, 2025, at 11:00 AM. Immediately afterwards, there will be a grave-side service at the Molina Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to The Gideons International in her honor.