Leone Helen Johnson

Leone "Punky" Helen Johnson passed away at her home in Windsor, California on February 2, 2026, at the age of 90.

Leone was born and raised in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. After graduating from Eau Claire Senior High School in 1953, she moved to Chicago, Illinois to work for the CB&Q Railroad. In September 1954 she met Richard Albert Johnson who was stationed at O'Hare Air Force Base after his tour of duty in Korea. She wed Richard on January 1, 1955 and together they started their life in Turlock, California.

The first years of her marriage were dedicated to motherhood and raising her children. As her children got older, she worked as a bookkeeper for various Turlock businesses including Nutcher Farm Equipment. She worked for Foster Farms for 25 years before retiring in 1995. Her interests included serving as a Cub Scouts den mother and a 4H cooking instructor, participating in various bowling leagues, volunteering with the Emanuel Hospital Auxiliary in the thrift shop and surgical waiting room, and supporting her husband's involvement in the Denair Volunteer Fire Department and the Denair Lions Club. She enjoyed cooking, baking, sewing, and needle crafts. She also loved to watch game shows, with Jeopardy! being her favorite. She and her husband Richard enjoyed many travel adventures throughout the United States and the world.

Leone Johnson is survived by her four children: Robert (Merilark) Johnson of Lower Lake, California; James Johnson of Windsor, California; Michael Johnson of La Grange, California; Jacqueline Johnson of Windsor, California; and her grandson Michael (Allison) Johnson of Springtown, Texas. She was preceded in death by her husband, Richard; infant son Jeffrey; her parents Robert and Lucille Welke; and her brother, Robert Leonard Welke.

A private graveside service will be held at Hills Ferry Cemetery in Newman at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Denair Lions Club or the Denair Volunteer Fire Department.