Kathy Johnson

Kathy Benia Johnson, a beloved educator, community leader, and mentor, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of service, compassion, and unwavering dedication to others. She was born on March 19, 1951, in Union City, Tennessee, to the late Earl and Louise Johnson.

Following in the footsteps of her mother, Kathy devoted her life to education, teaching Home Economics for over 30 years. She began her teaching career in Louisville, Kentucky, but spent most of her years shaping young lives in Lake County, Tennessee. Her classroom was more than a place of learning—it was a place of encouragement, growth, and care. A dedicated mentor, she influenced generations of students with both skill and heart.

Kathy was a proud and active member of numerous organizations throughout her life. She served as Treasurer of the Lake County Retired Teachers Association and was a member of both the National Education Association (NEA) and the Tennessee Education Association (TEA) Retired Teachers Association. Her deep commitment to her community was evident in her involvement with groups such as the Miles High Alumni Association and the Community Serving Club. She also contributed her leadership to boards including Crime Stoppers and the Union City Energy Authority.

A passionate sports enthusiast, Kathy could often be found cheering on Kentucky and Tennessee basketball—and most enthusiastically, her cherished Lake County High School teams.

One of the most significant aspects of Kathy’s life was her more than 50-year membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., a historically African American sorority founded in 1913 and rooted in public service. Kathy embodied the sorority’s mission through a lifetime of activism, mentorship, and service. She was the former President of the Dyersburg Alumnae Chapter and remained deeply involved until her passing. As a “big sister” to many new members, she nurtured countless women through their personal and professional journeys, always leading with wisdom, grace, and love.

Kathy was also a faithful and devoted member of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church, where she served actively and spiritually, continuing her lifelong commitment to faith and service.

Kathy is survived by her loving brother, David Johnson (Carianna) of Smyrna, TN; nieces Donnetta Johnson, Kristy Weddington, Shari Williams, Alexis Johnson, Shelby Malmstrom; nephew Jamie Plunkett; numerous great-nieces and great-nephews; one uncle, Herbert Johnson and one aunt, Pearl Partee. Her warmth, leadership, and enduring spirit will live on in the lives she touched, the students she taught, and the community she served so selflessly.

Services will be held at noon on Saturday, August 30, 2025, at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church. Interment will follow in East View Cemetery.

Visitation will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. on Friday, August 29, 2025, at McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home Chapel. Also, on Saturday morning from 10:30 a.m. until time of service at the church.

McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home - Union City 731-885-8110