Mary Carol Johnson

Mary Carol (Mickey) Johnson

January 10, 1937 – October 13, 2024

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Mary Carol Johnson, affectionately known as Mary, who departed this life on October 13 at the age of 87. She was born at home on the farm January 10, 1937, in Garden Prairie to Robert and Esther Mickey.   Mary is survived by her daughter and son-in-law, Marcy and Matt Murphy, along with their daughters Paige and Sidney. She is also survived by her son and daughter-in-law Curtis Johnson and Michele Finley Johnson, along with their children Greta and Stellan. She was preceded in death by her husband Phillip, sisters Pat Ross, Joan Kostka, Betty Heron, Jacqueline Mickey and Sydney Bounds, as well as her brother Robert R. Mickey and parents Robert C. and Esther Mickey.  

Mary graduated from Belvidere High School where she played coronet in the marching band, was a long-time member of 4-H club, and was 4-H Queen. Mary later attended University of Illinois and Rockford College. Having earned her teaching certificate, Mary dedicated over 20 years of her life as a head teacher at First Step Day Care Center.  Mary enjoyed growing up on the farm, often recalling her time milking dairy cattle and ice skating at the river.  As a young family, Phil and Mary enjoyed camping trips to Pilgrim Park where they often volunteered their service remodeling buildings and teaching the occasional crafting class. Mary was passionate about collecting antiques, crafting, gardening, canning, cooking, and spending quality time with her family. A member of the Red Hats, she also served on the board for United Way and was a long-time member of the Methodist Church of Belvidere.   Mary was known for her joyous laugh and kindness to everyone she met.  

The family would like to thank Brenda Gucciardo, for providing friendship and loving care to Mary for the last few years of her life.

A celebration of life service will be held November 8, 2024 at the Belvidere First United Methodist Church. Visitation: 9:30-11am. Service: 11:00 am. Luncheon to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Belvidere First United Methodist Church or Lifescape(https://lifescapeservices.org/donate/).