Jo Ann "JJ" Johnson

Jo Ann "JJ" Johnson passed away suddenly on the morning of January 21, 2026, at the age of 76. Born prematurely in Highland Park, Michigan, she was the youngest of three children of Clayton and Grace (Heimke) Johnson. A miracle from the very beginning, JJ spent her life surprising others in the most wonderful ways.

Raised in a home filled with gospel music and hymns, JJ taught herself to play the piano by ear, a talent she carried with her throughout her life. Shortly after graduating high school, she faced the heartbreaking loss of her mother to breast cancer, a challenge no young woman is ever prepared to endure.

JJ later moved to the Luther Home of Mercy in Ohio, where she spent 20 years building friendships and sharing her humor, warmth, and eagerness to help others. After another move, she found a chosen family who embraced her wholeheartedly. With them, she continued a life full of adventure, generosity, and creativity-especially through the bracelets she loved to make and give away. She delighted in Mickey Mouse, the movie What About Bob, a good road trip, and the music of Elton John.

For many years, JJ was the welcoming face at Riverview Industries, where she worked as a receptionist. Her smile became a familiar comfort to all who walked through the doors. She retired in 2020 after decades of dedication, laughter, and friendship. A breast cancer survivor, JJ faced life's challenges with resilience and grace, leaning on her family and faith as a member of St. John's Evangelical Church in Oak Harbor.

JJ is survived by her chosen family: Shannon (Tony) Hand, Amy (Ed) Cantu, Jan Meinke, and Whitney McMullen; her nieces and nephews: Anaya Cantu, Ian Cantu, Connor Hand, Emma Hand, Madison Hand, Everett Hand, Olivia Hand, Delilah McMullen, and her goddaughter Isabel Hand; as well as the entire extended Hartlaub family. She was preceded in death by her parents, her brother Gordon, and her sister‑in‑law Gloria Johnson.

Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at 11:00 AM, followed by a funeral service at Noon, both at Robinson‑Walker Funeral Home, 165 E. Water Street, Oak Harbor, Ohio. A private burial will occur at a later date. Memorial donations may be made in JJ's honor to Island Safe Harbor Animal Sanctuary in Port Clinton or the Ottawa County Humane Society.