Evelyn Louise Johnson's Obituary
Evelyn Louise Johnson, beloved mother, sister, and friend to all who knew her, passed away peacefully at home on September 1, 2025, following two stroke events. She was lovingly attended by her son Keith during her final days.
Born in 1936 and raised in Chicago, Illinois, Evelyn embodied the grace and warmth of a true Southern lady from the moment she and her husband Dale made Fayetteville their home in 1963. Dale had accepted a professorship in the University of Arkansas Chemistry Department, where he taught inorganic and general chemistry, beginning a chapter that would span decades in their adopted Arkansas community.
Evelyn and Dale were united in marriage in 1953 in Chicago while Dale was completing his graduate studies. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership that enriched both their lives and the lives of all who knew them.
A practitioner of the needle arts, Evelyn was an avid quilter, knitter, crocheter, and needlepoint artist whose skillful hands created countless treasures. She specialized in traditional block and Amish quilts, and her generous spirit shone through in the many quilts and afghans she lovingly crafted as baby shower gifts for friends and family. Each piece was not just a work of art, but a tangible expression of her care and affection. Evelyn possessed the rare gift of instant friendship. Her warm heart and welcoming nature made her a friend to anyone she met, and her kindness touched countless lives. She was preceded in death by her cherished husband Dale Johnson; her son Scott Johnson; her parents George and Dorothy Venables; and her sisters Margaret Venables and Lorraine Goodwille.
Evelyn is survived by her loving son Keith Johnson and her dear sister Marilyn Barkhaus.
Evelyn's legacy lives on in the beautiful handcrafted items she created, the friendships she nurtured, and the love she shared so freely with all who were blessed to know her. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered.
There will be no service. In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made as donations to KUAF, her favorite radio station. As public radio faces ongoing challenges from government defunding, donations help ensure that KUAF can continue to provide the programming Evelyn loved.
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