Tara Lynn Johnson

1974 - 2025

Tara Lynn Johnson
Born: August 22, 1974 in Beloit, WI
Died: June 4, 2025 in Prophetstown, IL
TARA LYNN JOHNSON, 50, of Prophetstown, IL, passed away peacefully at her home on Wednesday, June 4, 2025, surrounded by her beloved family.
A visitation will be held from 2:00 to 5:00 PM on Sunday, June 29, 2025, at First Lutheran Church in Prophetstown. A memorial service celebrating Tara's life will be held at 11:00 AM on Monday, June 30, 2025, at the church, with Marcus Johnson officiating. Cremation rites have been accorded. Memorials have been established to benefit First Lutheran Church and the Prophetstown Food Pantry-two places close to Tara's heart.
Tara was born on August 22, 1974, in Beloit, WI, to Mark and Linda (Fauske) Volden. She graduated from Viroqua High School and earned her Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from Western Illinois University. On June 15, 1996, she married the love of her life, Reid Carter Johnson, on her family's farm in Viroqua, WI. Together, they built a life centered around faith, family, and community. Tara's life was marked by selflessness and intentionality, and she poured her heart and soul into all she did. She had a deep passion for volleyball, and after her college playing days were over, she began her coaching career at Sauk Valley College. This was followed by over 20 years of coaching at Prophetstown High School, during which time she founded the Orange Crush Volleyball Club. She also worked briefly for Lutheran Social Services, volunteered faithfully at the local food pantry, and was an active member of First Lutheran Church and the Prophetstown Lions Club. Whether organizing events, encouraging her players, or simply lending a helping hand, Tara always showed up-with joy, energy, and kindness.
Above all, Tara cherished her role as a mother. She was endlessly proud of her three children and supported them fiercely in all their endeavors. She covered more miles than seemed humanly possible in her determination to be present and support them in every way. An incredible planner, Tara created amazing travel experiences for her loved ones in Norway, Rome, Ireland, Costa Rica, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, Kentucky, Alaska, Colorado, and other wonderful places. Tara had a gift for making people feel seen and celebrated, whether it was through unforgettable parties she planned or the thoughtful gifts she perfectly chose. She poured love into the personalized quilts she made, and she never missed a chance to attend a concert. She found great joy in music, playing volleyball and softball, and helping Reid on the farm.
Tara is survived by her husband, Reid; one daughter, Dena Johnson of Dubuque, IA; two sons, Clayton Johnson and Liam Johnson both of Prophetstown, IL; her parents, Mark and Linda Volden of Viroqua, WI; her in-laws, Orval and Connie Johnson of Prophetstown, IL; her siblings, Nicholas (Julia) Volden of Viroqua, WI, and Casey (Joel) Gochenaur of Cobb, WI; her sister-in-law, Kimberly (Joel) Jara of Wheaton, IL; as well as many loving aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and extended family.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents, Lindor and Sally Fauske, and Eugene and Mabel Volden.
Tara's inner strength, compassion, and unwavering faith left an indelible mark on all who knew her. She will be deeply missed but remembered always with love and gratitude.
Online condolences may be shared at www.bosmagibson.com.