Shirley E. Johnson

Shirley E. Johnson, 100, of Geneseo, passed away on Friday, November 7, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.  Cremation rites will be accorded, and a memorial service will be held at Vandemore Funeral Homes & Crematory - Geneseo Chapel on Monday, November 17, 2025, at 10:30 a.m.  Reverend Barry Wynveen will officiate.  Inurnment will be held at Oakwood Cemetery, Geneseo.  A memorial visitation will be held from 3:00 – 5:00 p.m. at the funeral home on Sunday, November 16, 2025. Memorials may be directed to the Henry County Humane Society – Geneseo, 14606 Roos Hill Road, Geneseo, IL, 61254.

Born August 3, 1925, in Cornwell Township, Atkinson, Illinois, Shirley was the cherished daughter of Hanan and Martha (Bismark) Wigant. She graduated from Geneseo High School with the class of 1943. On May 11, 1947, Shirley married the love of her life, Harley A. Johnson.  Together, they built a beautiful family and shared countless cherished moments until his passing on September 21, 2023.

A faithful and lifelong member of 100 years, at First Presbyterian Church in Geneseo, Shirley’s gentle spirit touched many hearts within her church community. For many years, she worked as a secretary/bookkeeper at Belanger Farm Equipment. Later, she was employed at Harley's Wooden Nickel.

Shirley collected dolls, loved attending her grandchildren’s events, and gathering with family. In her younger years, she embraced friendship and fun through bowling, golf, and belonged to several card-playing groups. A true Chicago Cubs fan through every season, she also liked watching professional basketball.

Those left to cherish her memory include her son Steven A. Johnson of DeKalb; daughters, Lynette Johnson, Joleene (Rich) Fluegel, and Vanessa (Todd) Tarkington, all of Geneseo; Grandchildren, Dee (Tom) Buttgen, Christopher Johnson, Travis (Meagan) DeSplinter, Keith (Dennale Yarbrough) DeSplinter, Tanner and Tucker Tarkington; nine great-grandchildren; four great-great-grandchildren; six step-great-grandchildren; and seven step-great-great-grandchildren; beloved nieces,  Christine Mohler and Beth Breezley.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Hanan and Martha; husband, Harley; grandson, Anthony Johnson; sister, Janice Chamberlain; and nephews, Randy and Kevin Chamberlain.