Debra “Debbie” Ann Johnson

Debra “Debbie” Ann Johnson went to be with her Lord on Sunday, May 24, 2020 at her home, surrounded by her family. Debbie was born on October 23, 1957 in Bakersfield, CA to Donald Wayne Walker and Alpha “Loretta” Moore Walker. She was the oldest of six children, having two younger brothers Greg and Donald Jr, and three younger sisters Terri, Mary, and Donna. Debbie’s family moved a lot when she was young, ending up in Wichita, Ks. When she was growing up, her and her brothers enjoyed roller skating, dancing, and fishing to name a few. Whatever Debbie did, Greg and Donald were with. Debbie was a very hard worker and was not shy to help wherever needed. She started waitressing when she was a teenager and was a natural. On July 29, 1978 Debbie married Merlyn Gene Johnson, in Newton, Ks at Church of the Brethren. April 23, 1979 Merlyn and Debbie welcomed their first son, Steven Lee and a year later, on April 13, 1980 their second son, David Gene, completed their family. When her sons were young, Debbie enjoyed staying at home and being a homemaker. She took much pride in raising her family and helping and spending time with her entire family. There was nothing like family to Debbie. Her kids, grand kids and great granddaughter were the lights of her life, her pride and joy. Her faith was strong and never doubted the presence of God, in her life. Debbie was a wonderful cook, co-owning her own restaurant at one time. And boy could she bake! Her flower gardens were some of the most beautiful and meaningful. She was a gifted gardener, having quite the green thumb. In 2014, Debbie was diagnosed and fought esophageal cancer, beating it. She was cancer free for over a year, but when cancer returned, her health quickly declined. Debbie was very stubborn and refused to give up but fought hard. Good Shepherd Hospice provided Debbie outstanding and holistic care and is much appreciated. Debbie is survived by husband, Merlyn of Walton, Ks; sons Steven and Courtney, and David, both of Walton; Granddaughters Sierra (Newton) and Riley (Walton); Grandsons Evan (Newton), Ethan (Valley Center, Ks) and Conner Johnson (Walton); Great Granddaughter Caroline Munger (Newton); In-laws Evan and Carolyn Johnson (Newton); Brother Greg and Penny Walker (Newton); Sisters Terri and John Boisen (Benton, Ks), Mary Walker (Wichita) and Donna Walker (Newton); and many loved nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents Donald and Loretta Walker, nephew Gregory Walker and infant niece Crystal Faith Walker. A Celebration of Life and meal will be held on Sunday, July 5th, 2020 at Harvey County East Park, Volunteer Hall at 5pm. A private family burial will occur at Walton at Walton Cemetery, Prior to the Celebration of Life.