Sue Ann Johnson, a cherished light in the lives of those who knew her, passed away peacefully at her home in Dayton, Ohio, on November 21, 2025, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on April 14, 1944, in the very same city, Sue lived a life brimming with kindness, dedication, and an unquenchable spirit that resonated deeply with all who crossed her path.
A proud graduate of Wilbur Wright High School in 1962, Sue embarked on a journey that would intertwine her life with countless memories and relationships. After raising her beloved children, she embraced her talent for photography, capturing life’s fleeting moments in a photography studio. Her artistic flair extended to her work with esteemed Interior Design companies as an office manager, notably at Norman Miller, before gracefully concluding her career at Centerville Design. Her meticulous attention to detail led to perfect presentations of her home and decorations, which became a testament to her creativity and passion for beauty.
Sue was full of life, vivacity and warmth. An extremely social individual, she thrived on connections, establishing lasting friendships through her unwavering involvement in her community. A devoted member of Normandy Church, she nurtured her faith and shared her heart with a kindness that was the hallmark of her character. Her enthusiasm for life was infectious; from dancing for years at Arthur Murray's Dance Studio to being a spirited member of the Grandmother's Club, the Birthday Club and the Wilbur Wright Girls, she found joy in sharing laughter and love with friends and neighbors alike.
Family stood at the center of Sue's world. She poured her heart into her daughters, Tami (Joe) Farmer, Teresa (Michael) Mosley, Denise (Warren) Gordon and Amy Davis. Each of her children carried a piece of her vibrancy, a reflection of her nurturing spirit. She was a devoted grandmother to Daniel, Rachel, Liam (Sarah), Griffin, Rylinn, Alex, Kayleigh, Chelsea, Hannah (Ryan Sr.), Kara, and Kiaser, each grandchild a gleaming star in her ever-expanding universe of love. Her legacy continued through her great-grandchildren-Brayden, Christopher, Carter, Hunter, Savvy, Georgia, Zayleigh, Laveya, Waylon, and Ryan Jr.-who brought her immeasurable joy and pride.
Sue’s journey, however, was also marked by profound loss. She was preceded in death by Ralph Johnson Jr., her devoted husband of 49 years, who stood by her side through all of life’s chapters. The echoes of her parents, Irma and James Minard, and her sister, Rita Kuhbander, remain woven into the fabric of her family’s stories.
In addition to her cherished family, Sue shared a special bond with her brother, Ross Minard, and the blessings of many loving nieces and nephews who adored her. In her final years, she found companionship and solace with her dear friend, Wayne Sink, who highlighted the warmth of her enduring spirit in her community.
As we celebrate the life of Sue Ann Johnson, we remember a woman whose vivacious spirit touched hearts far and wide. Her legacy of love, faith, and creativity serves as an enduring reminder of the beautiful impact one soul can have in the tapestry of life. While she has departed from our sight, her essence lives on in every cherished memory and in the hearts of her beloved family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Breakthrough T1D in Sue's honor.
A Memorial Service will be held on Friday, December 12, 2025 at 1:00 pm at Normandy United Methodist Church (450 W Alex Bell Rd, Dayton, OH 45459).
Normandy United Methodist Church
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