Kathy Burrum Johnson

1941 - 2019

Kathy Burrum Johnson passed from this life, surrounded by her family, on Aug. 31, after a long illness.She was born, Ethel Katherine Burrum, June 22, 1941, in Nashville, TN to William Jennings Bryan Burrum Sr. and Annie Elizabeth (Hemmer) Burrum. She was 10 of 11 children.Raised in Nashville, Kathy graduated from Cohn High School, in 1959. In Nashville, she worked for Castner Knott, Service Merchandise, Allied Bearings, Jack Daniel Distillery, Tennessee Central Credit Union League and as manager of Werthan Employees Credit Union.Kathy met the love of her life, Thomas Morley 'Tom' Johnson, in Nashville, in 1976. They were married, in Nashville, on Feb. 24, 1979.In 1980, Kathy and Tom, made the big decision to relocate to California so Tom could continue his career with Chevron. Together, with Kim (age nine), they made their new home in Suisun City.Kathy worked for Vaca Valley Bus Lines, and Meyers Jewelers in Fairfield. In April of 1983, Kathy began a new career with the Employment Development Department (EDD), for the State of California, in Fairfield. In August of 1985, she transferred to the Vallejo, office of the EDD. In December, 1999, after 16 years, her health forced her to retire.Prior to retirement Kathy and Tom enjoyed square dancing with the Pals and Sals, in Vacaville and, they were among the founding members of the Grand Squares, on Travis Air Force Base.After retirement she enjoyed her family, doing crafts, working in her yard, and traveling with Tom.In 2017, due to health reasons, Kathy, and Tom sold their beloved home, of 36 plus years, after already having moved to an assisted living facility in Vacaville. Then, in 2018, they moved into a skilled nursing facility, Vacaville Convalescent and Rehabilitation Center (VCRC).Kathy was a lifelong member of the Churches of Christ. The last congregation she was a member of was, the Lassen Street Church of Christ, in Vallejo. Kathy had a remarkable ability to reach people in a deep and positive way with her joy, laughter, understanding, and sharing her faith.Kathy loved her family deeply and enjoyed spending time with them whether it was just being together, or on the phone and even through social media! She also enjoyed sewing, collecting ornamental lighthouses, and visiting any lighthouse that she and Tom passed in their travels. Kathy loved hummingbirds, and anything red, white, and blue, that celebrated her country. And, whether it be her office space or home, in the front yard, the garage door or even the mailbox, Kathy loved decorating for most holidays.She is survived by her husband of 40 years, Tom; children, Donald (Leigh Anne) Stroud, of Duluth, GA, Eva (Charlie) Myatt, and Kimberlee (Albert) Bagos, all of Vacaville, six grandchildren (three with spouses), five great-grandchildren, sisters-in-law; and numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and friends who were more like family. Kathy was preceded in death by, her parents; and all of her siblings.The family would like to take this opportunity to thank the staff, at VCRC, for the kindness and loving care that you bestowed upon Kathy and the family.There will be an informal celebration of Kathy's life, at 11:30 a.m., Monday, Oct. 7, at the Sacramento Valley National Cemetery, 5810 Midway Road, Dixon. Please dress comfortably, wearing your favorite, red white and blue, patriotic attire, e.g., ties, T-shirts, shorts, etc. And if it sparkles…even better! Because you know that was Kathy!! Kathy loved her country, and her favorite holiday, next to Christmas, was the 4th of July.In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to a charity that Kathy supported, The Wounded Warrior Project. Thank you.
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