Susan Keathley Johnson

Susan Keathley Johnson passed away unexpectedly on February 8, 2026, at the age of 76, following a short illness.

Susan grew up in Memphis, born to the late Mary Catherine Keathley and the late Richard Franklin Keathley on August 28, 1949. She was predeceased in death by her brother, Barry Wayne Keathley. Susan attended Snowden Elementary and later graduated from Central High School. Her early years in the city nurtured a lifelong appreciation for beauty, creativity, and community-qualities that would shape her life in meaningful ways.

For 23 years, Susan worked at the Dixon Gallery and Gardens, a place that perfectly reflected her deep love of the arts. She found joy in sharing that world with others, and her warmth and enthusiasm made her a beloved presence among colleagues, visitors, and friends.

She is survived by her husband of 55 years, Robert Darryl Johnson. Together they built a family that became Susan's greatest pride.

She is also survived by their three children-Amanda Johnson Walker, Evan Darryl Johnson (Brandi), and Bradley Richard Johnson (Neela)-each of whom carries forward her kindness, strength, and gentle spirit. Susan was also a deeply cherished grandmother to six grandchildren: Catherine Walker, Ben Walker, Mack Johnson, Miles Johnson, Stella Johnson, and Tatum Johnson. Her love for them was boundless, and they brought her immeasurable joy.

Outside of her work, Susan found happiness in gardening, nurturing the beauty around her just as she nurtured the people she loved. She treasured time spent with friends and family, whether gathered around a table, walking through a garden, or simply sharing stories and laughter.

Susan will be remembered for her warmth, compassion and quiet resilience, and the way she made every person she met feel valued. Her legacy lives on in the family she adored, the friendships she cultivated, and the countless moments of love and beauty she brought into the world.

Visitation will be from 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Friday, February 13th at Canale Funeral Directors. Private burial will be at Memorial Park Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to The Dixon Gallery and Gardens, 4339 Park Avenue, Memphis TN 38117 www.dixon.org.