Dora Johnson

Dora L. Johnson, 91, Marion, passed away at Colonial Oaks Nursing Home at 10:40 pm on Monday, July 14, 2025. Born in Albany, Kentucky, on June 26, 1934, she was the beloved daughter of the late James and Willie (Cooksey) Shelley. Dora attended Muncie Central High School and spent much of her life serving others as a dedicated cook and waitress. Her heart for service extended beyond her profession--she taught Cradle Roll at Calvary Assembly of God in Elkhart, Indiana, and was known for her warm hospitality and generous spirit.
In her later years, Dora found joy in simple pleasures. She loved to read, cook, and host monthly meet-and-greet gatherings in her community, always decorating with care and creativity. She also discovered a passion for coloring, often sending her beautifully colored cards to friends and family as tokens of love and encouragement.
Dora is survived by her children: Rick (Patty) Johnson, Vicky (Tony) Harris, Kris (John) Wisnieski, all of Florida; David (Diana) Johnson and Randy (Ronda) Johnson, both of Indiana; Theresa (Randy) Watts of Florida; and Carla Elliott of Indiana. She also leaves behind numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, as well as her sisters, Marie Thompson of Connecticut and Sharon (David) Pence of Marion.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her step-mother, Letha McGill-Shelley; and her brother-in-Law, Bruce Thompson.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave., Marion, IN.
A celebration of Dora's life will follow at 1:00 pm, officiated by Rev. Haley Asberry. She will be laid to rest at Albany Cemetery in Albany, Kentucky.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.