Irene Smyth Johnson

October 3, 1919 - December 15, 2017

A memorial/celebration of life service will be held from 1 to 5 p.m. on Saturday, December 30 at the Oregon Veteran's Home in Lebanon, 600 N 5th St., Lebanon.

Irene was born in Junction City to Joel and Anna Smyth. She graduated from Junction City High School in 1937.

She and Marion (Red) Johnson, AKA Santa, were married in 1938.

Irene is survived by their seven children, Peggy Snyder (John), Gary Johnson (Joanne), Becky McAllister (Bob), Gordon Johnson (Lisa), Jill Beemer (Dave), Joel Johnson (Shelly), and Tim Johnson (Teresa). She is also survived by 23 grandchildren, 28 great-grandchildren, five great-great grandchildren, and three great-great-great-grandchildren.

Irene's ancestors were pioneers in the Willamette Valley and came across country via covered wagons in the mid-1800s.

During World War II, Irene was a welder on tanker ships at Swan Island in Portland while her husband served his country as a Merchant Marine. After the war, they returned to the Junction City area to raise their seven children.

Irene was an avid sportswoman during her youth and then supported all of her children's athletic endeavors. In her later years (at 80) she coached the Christian Church's men's slow pitch team. She was more than an avid Mariners fan (often convinced that she should be their manager). She was also a U of O and OSU fan, rooting equally for both. But the U of O always got top billing during any Civil War games. She will be greatly missed by all of her friends and family.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her name to the Junction City High School Education Together Scholarships Foundation (class of 1937). P.O. Box 523, Junction City, OR 97448.

Arrangements entrusted to Murphy-Musgrove Funeral Home. Please sign the guestbook at www.musgroves.com.