Phyllis C. Johnson

1941 - 2025

Phyllis C. Johnson, 84, passed away August 19, 2025. Phyllis was born March 3, 1941 in Custer, SD, a daughter of Howard and Marcie (McDonald) Mahnke. She grew up on a small farm, west of Custer with her sisters, Helen and Janice and cousin, Betty Compton.

Phyllis graduated from Custer High School and Colorado State University. She worked for the US Forest Service in the Black Hills, Colorado and Montana. She met Rich Johnson, a forester, in the Black Hills National Forest. They married on August 3, 1965 in Agana, Guam, where Rich was stationed and flying with the US Navy. They returned to the U.S. and worked at several duty stations with the US Fish and Wildlife Service. She retired from the BLM in 1992.

Dogs were an important part of our lives. Bird dogs, Mac, Kelly, Niki, Sara, Choy and Phyllis' rescued dachshund, Baily, who tried to be and thought she was a bird dog. Phyllis joins the dogs on a special ranch in Central Montana.

Retired winters were enjoyed in Sierra Vista, AZ. Phyllis was a member of St. Leo's Catholic Church. She was an accomplished seamstress, cook, dog caregiver and a wonderful life partner for sixty years to her husband Rich.

Phyllis is survived by her husband, Rich and her sister, Janice.

A special thank you to the staff at Valle Vista Manor for their loving care.

Memorials in Phyllis' honor can be made to S.A.F.E. (Saving Animals From Euthanasia), future home of Safe Heart Animal Shelter, 129 Sweet grass Dr., Lewistown, MT 59457 or the charity of one's choice.

At her request, cremation has taken place and no services are planned. Arrangements are under the care of Creel Funeral Home. Memories and condolences can be shared at www.creelfuneralhome.com