Gayl L. Johnson

Gayl L. Johnson, age 79, of Marquette, Michigan, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Sunday, March 15, 2026, following a sudden fall while visiting family in Pennsylvania. She was born on February 10, 1947, in Bradford, PA, to the late Donald and Betty Weilacher Phillips. Gayl attended Northern Michigan University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Social Work. She decided to continue her education, earning a degree in Criminal Justice, and worked as a correctional officer until she retired. Gayl was a loving homemaker who devoted her life to her family. She poured her heart into ensuring her children had everything they needed. Gayl was a strong woman of deep faith in God. If her body were as strong as her faith, she would have been superhuman. Gayl faithfully read her bible and was a dedicated prayer warrior. She was a member of the Crossbridge Church in Ishpeming, MI, and attended the Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Marquette, MI with her husband. Gayl always looked forward to traveling any chance she could. She loved spending time with her family and hosting holiday gatherings. Gayl also enjoyed sewing, gardening, camping, hunting, fishing, farming, and the comfort of her dogs. She is survived by her loving husband, Donald Johnson, whom she married in August of 1995; her seven children, Tamala “Skeeter” Clark, Ronda (Terry) Parkkonen, Jay (Jill) Barrett, Tim (Amy) Barrett, Joe (Ludy) Johnson, Robert (Joni) Johnson, and Kelly Johnson; fourteen grandchildren, Jessica (Mack) Flanagan, Christopher (Stephanie) Parkkonen, Sarah (Stephen) Hooper, Alyssa (William) Eales, Jayson (Tami) Barrett, Michael Siple, Ethan (Jodi) Bertucci, Kyla Barrett, Fisher Barrett, Joelene Johnson, Taylor Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Travis Johnson, and Adam Johnson; and eight great-grandchildren, Emmett Flanagan, Eloise and Reggie Parkkonen, Alia and Vera Hooper, Nash and Ryder Bertucci, and Hunter Johnson; and two bonus grandchildren, Ethan (Auora) Lundquist and his children, Greyson Stull and Grace Lundquist, and Elaina Sylvester, whom she raised, as well as numerous foster children she loved dearly. Gayl is also survived by her brother, Gary (Sherry) Phillips, and sister-in-law, Cathy Phillips Fehr, as well as numerous nieces and nephews, great-nieces and nephews, and wonderful friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her brother, Stanley Phillips. The Robert V. Burns Funeral Home in Clarion, PA, has the distinct honor of serving the family. A memorial service will be held at Crossbridge Church, with committal services to take place at Prince of Peace Memorial Garden at a later date to be announced.

Gayl L. Johnson

February 10, 1947 - March 15, 2026