Shirley Ann (Rogers) Johnson

1935 - 2026

Shirley Ann (Rogers) Johnson

Shirley Ann Rogers Johnson, 90, of Wichita, Kansas passed away peacefully with family by her side on Sunday, January 18, 2026. She was born on December 22, 1935, in Cushing, Oklahoma to Elvie and Anna Rogers. Her family moved to Wichita where she spent most of her life.

She was the middle of five children being the only girl with two older and two younger brothers. Shirley believed that her mother named her after Shirley Temple. Being sassy was a necessity when surrounded by four brothers. Her family also witnessed that sassy side later in her life. Her older brothers, Bill and Bob preceded her in death. Her younger brothers, Jerry and EV reside in Texas.

Shirley attended school in Cushing and Wichita. She completed some college courses. She met the boy who would become her husband while working as a car hop. She married Joe Johnson on October 12,1953 in Wichita, Kansas. They welcomed their first child, Diana Lynn (Meadors) on May 15, 1954. Debra Jo (Schoenecker) was born on September 7,1956 and David Alan was born on August 7, 1965. While that marriage ended, it gave her three beautiful children. Shirley was a caring and giving mother who put others before herself. She was always present to support her children during their activities and sporting events. Later, as she became Grandma to Jason Schoenecker, Matthew Meadors, Gregory Johnson and Whitney Johnson, she was a source of fun, support and comfort for her grandchildren. Shirley was a caring and nurturing grandma who would take any opportunity to spend time with her grandchildren. It was not beyond her to hop on a swing beside them, go down a playground slide or play a game of Old Maid or Chinese Checkers. Her children and grandchildren’s competitiveness can be traced to their mother and grandmother. Her family was the joy of her life.

Shirley worked for the IRS as a tax auditor and the SBA; however, the job she loved most was spent over many years caring for children in various daycare centers. She cared for others with a passion that came naturally to her putting others before herself. Often, she would lovingly speak of her time caring for the children.

Outside of her work, she enjoyed quilting, crocheting and embroidery. She loved singing old gospel and country tunes and was comforted through listening to music. She played both the piano and organ. Shirley was an avid Oklahoma Sooners football fan and enjoyed attending their games. Shirley’s faith was an integral part of her life. She was a member of Indian Hills Church of Nazarene in Wichita and was an active member while her health allowed. She trusted God’s plan for her life and her family can take comfort in the promise of eternal life through Christ knowing that Shirley is now at peace, resting in the arms of the Lord and reunited with the loved ones who went before her.

Shirley is survived by her daughter, Debra (Gerald) Schoenecker of Duluth, GA and her son, David (Jean Ann) Johnson of Kearney, MO; and grandchildren Jason Schoenecker of Duluth, GA, Matthew Meadors of Fredonia, KS, Gregory Johnson of Kearney, MO and Whitney (Jonathan) Johnson Hair of Kansas City, MO. She was preceded in death by her daughter, Diana Meadors.