Arlene Josephine Johnson, age 87, of Vicksburg, Michigan, passed away on Saturday afternoon, February 7, 2026, to be with her Lord and Savior.
Arlene was born on March 5, 1938, in St. Johns, Michigan, to the late Frank and Goldie (Stanger) Kopejtko. Due to her father's career, Arlene lived in every state west of the Mississippi River before turning 18. The family always settled back in Michigan. Arlene met and married Raymond Clifford Johnson on August 17, 1959, in Saginaw, Michigan. They eventually moved to Strongs, Michigan, Raymond's hometown, where they raised their four children.
Arlene earned an associate's degree in accounting and dedicated many years to serving her community. She worked in the township and taught homemaking to 4-H members. Arlene had a genuine love for helping children, in both public and private schools, and she also cared for her in-laws and other family members.
In her free time, Arlene enjoyed Bible study, spending time with her church family, reading, watching romance movies, solving puzzles, and organizing group dinners that were open to everyone. She loved singing in the church choir and sharing her faith with others. A true patriot, she regularly prayed for the military and kept up with our state and national government, maintaining contact information for every representative.
Arlene was truly a gift from God, and we were all blessed to have shared time with her. Selfless and generous, Arlene often gave more than she received, always making others feel important and valued.
Arlene is survived by her four children: Denise (Gary) Baumann, William (Debbie) Johnson, Connie Johnson, and Archie (Katrina) Johnson. Arlene is also survived by 12 grandchildren: Jeremy Baumann, Michelle Baumann, Bethanie (Dan) Meyers, Jessica (Lewis) Janik, Lindsay (John) Gurka, William (Megan) Johnson, Aaron (Victoria) Johnson, Taylor Johnson, Ian Johnson, and Haley Johnson, along with 11 great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Arlene was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, twin sisters Mary Ann and Ann Mary Kopejtko, and many in-laws.
A memorial service and burial will be held on May 23 in Strong, with burial at Coburn Cemetery. Pastor and dear friend Bill Lockhart will officiate the service.
While at www.amsfuneralhomes.com please take time to sign Arlene’s guestbook and share your favorite memory with her family.
The Johnson family is being cared for by the Avink, McCowen & Secord Funeral Homes and Cremation Society, 409 South Main Street, Vicksburg, MI 49097 (269) 649-1697.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
409 S Main St, Vicksburg, MI 49097

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more