Lucille Johnson

Lucille Emma Lavern (Segebart) Johnson was born on July 29, 1925, the daughter of Frank Ernest and Anna M. (Neumann) Segebart on a farm near Buck Grove in Washington Township, Iowa. She was baptized at St. John Lutheran Church in Buck Grove and later confirmed her faith at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Dow City. Lucille’s early years were filled with the joys and challenges of rural life as she attended country school near Buck Grove and later between Arion and Denison when her family relocated to a nearby farm.

On May 10, 1942, Lucille married the love of her life, Walter Lawrence Johnson, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church in Dow City. Just one month into their marriage, Walter was called to serve in World War II, a separation lasting four years. During this time, Lucille remained steadfast in her devotion to her husband and her faith. Upon his return, their union was blessed with three children: one cherished in her heart following a miscarriage and two beloved sons, Billy Ray and Russell Allen.

Lucille embraced her role as a homemaker with grace and dedication, pouring her love into caring for her family. Her home was always filled with the comforting aroma of home-cooked meals and the beauty of her meticulously tended garden, where she grew vibrant flowers and fresh vegetables. She took pride in preserving her harvest through canning, ensuring her family was well-fed during the winter months.

A gifted embroiderer, Lucille’s needlework reflected her patience and creativity. She found joy in sharing her talents and giving back to her community, often volunteering at the Deloit Community Center for BINGO and other activities. Her unwavering faith was central to her life, and she was a devoted member of Faith Lutheran Church in Deloit. Above all, Lucille cherished her family. Whether gathered around the kitchen table or enjoying simple moments in the garden, her love and warmth were the foundation of her family’s happiness. 

Lucille passed away on Tuesday, December 31, 2024, at the Denison Care Center at the age of 99 years, five months and two days. She was preceded in death by her parents; husband, Walter Johnson; infant child; two daughters-in-law: Katheryn Johnson and Janice Johnson; siblings: Violeta (Alvin “Tim”) Powell, Edward (Margaret) Segebart, Raymond Segebart, Wilbur (Mary Ann) Segebart, and Roy (Betty) Segebart. 

Lucille is survived by her two sons: Billy Ray Johnson of Pacific Junction and Russell Allen Johnson of Adrain, Minnesota; granddaughter, Jamie Lynn (Todd) Gruwell of Palm Meadow, Florida; grandson, Brian Russell of Adrain, Minnesota; step-grandson, Lorin Sean (Andrea) Kelly of Council Bluffs; three great-grandchildren: Courtney Jo Kelly, Jordan Kelly, and Logan Kelly; other family and friends. 

Her graveside service will be held at 1:45 p.m. on Friday, January 3, 2025, at the Deloit Cemetery in Deloit. Memorials may be directed to the Faith Lutheran Church in Deloit.