Rosemarie Johnson

Rosemarie Johnson, a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, passed away peacefully on October 24, 2023 at Knapp Medical Center. Rosemarie's journey began on January 2nd, 1940 in Swahili, England, where she was born to Edgar and Daisy Shepherd. Growing up in Harrogate, England alongside her two siblings Leonard and David, Rosemarie cultivated a strong sense of family and cherished every moment spent with loved ones.

In 1958, after completing high school and while pursuing her dream of becoming a registered nurse, fate brought Rosemarie into the path of her soul mate, Paul Franklin Johnson. Paul, serving in the US Air Force stationed in England at the time, instantly knew he had found something truly special in Rosemarie. Their love blossomed and they exchanged vows on January 28th, 1941 in Yorkshire England. Thus began a remarkable journey filled with adventure and togetherness that lasted a lifetime.

Rosemarie and Paul were blessed with four children who filled their lives with joy and laughter. Due to Paul's military career spanning over 20 years, the family relocated frequently, exploring different parts of the world together. They savored every opportunity to immerse themselves in new cultures and create lasting memories as a tight-knit family unit.

After retiring from the Air Force, Rosemarie and Paul continued their explorations across continents but eventually found their way to the serene beauty of the Rio Grande Valley thirty years ago. Settling down at the Snow-to-Sun Resort marked the beginning of a new chapter for both of them. Throughout their thirty years there, they enjoyed tranquility and embraced retirement together.

Among many shared hobbies that brought them closer than ever before was their shared passion for dance. Rosemarie and Paul possessed an incredible rhythm that perfectly mirrored their harmony as a couple. Every twirl and every glide on the dance floor was a testament to their unwavering love for one another.

Beyond dance, Rosemarie had a wide range of hobbies that brought her immense joy. Painting allowed her vibrant spirit to manifest on canvas, capturing the essence of her experiences. Her green thumb flourished in the garden, where she nurtured life and found solace amidst blooming flowers and lush foliage. Swimming became an avenue for relaxation and was instrumental in maintaining her health and vitality.

Rosemarie's legacy is carried on by those who were fortunate enough to have known her. She is preceded in death by her devoted husband of 42 years, Paul Franklin Johnson, as well as her parents Edgar Wilfred Shepherd and Daisy Lorena Shepherd. 

The impact Rosemarie had on her children's lives is immeasurable. Richard Johnson, Judy Carver (Frank), Wendie Johnson, and Andrew Johnson are forever grateful for the unconditional love and guidance she bestowed upon them. Rosemarie's nurturing nature extended to her grandchildren: Jennifer Hyde, Lisa Lew (Derrek), Ashley Hubbard, Eileen Wilson, Willie Wilson, and Michael Wilson (Jessica). Her treasured great-grandchildren - Jaelyn, Emerson, Judy, Esme, and Petra - lit up her world with their innocent smiles.  She leaves behind her beloved siblings, Leonard Shepherd, and David Shepherd, who will always cherish the memories they shared.

Rosemarie Johnson will be remembered for the genuine warmth she radiated to everyone around her. Her kind heart touched countless lives throughout her journey. She will forever remain in our hearts, her memory etched in the tapestry of our lives.