Donald Raye Johnson

Donald Raye Johnson, who passed away on May 31, 2024 in Bethany, Missouri, leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter and kindness that will forever be cherished by those who had the pleasure of knowing him. He was born on April 8, 1944, in Yale, Arkansas to Roy and Martha Johnson. Don was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, and friend.
 
Throughout his remarkable life, Don dedicated himself to the art of landscaping for 52 years. His talent extended beyond just transforming outdoor spaces; he coordinated projects for close friends and even the homes of many local athletes around Kansas City. His creativity knew no bounds as he nurtured gardens and landscapes with care and passion.
 
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Don was known for his warm heart and unwavering generosity. As a father, he exemplified patience and understanding, always choosing to see the best in people and holding no grudges. His willingness to help others knew no bounds - anyone who asked for assistance was met with a helping hand and a kind smile.
 
Don's vibrant personality shone through in all aspects of his life. A true character in every sense of the word, he delighted in playing the guitar and brought joy to those around him with his musical talents. In his free time, he pursued hobbies such as hunting quail, deer, and turkey. An expert gardener with a green thumb like no other, Don poured his heart into nurturing his plants and creating beauty wherever he went. Additionally, his joy for mechanics steered an enthusiasm for working on muscle cars from the 50s to the 80s. A talented storyteller with a knack for making others laugh, Don was also known for his charisma and exceptional guitar skills. 
 
He was a faithful man and scholar of the Bible. In his final moments surrounded by loved ones in Bethany, Missouri, it is said that "God saw he was getting tired." So ends a chapter in the life of a man who touched the hearts of many and left an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to have known him.
 
Don is survived by his loving wife Mary Anne (Ryan) Johnson; children Laura (Scott) Losensky, Lynn (Kim) Johnson, Shannon Johnson, Sheryl (Pat) Gibbs; grandchildren Brittany, Ryan, Natalie, Emily, Ashley, Christina, Tobie, Brian, Michael; several great-grandchildren; siblings Jay Johnson, Evelyn Sue O'Dell, Carolyn Jones, Catherine Heady, Paul Johnson, Sharon Korosac, Jerry Johnson, and Jeanie Warkentine.

He is preceded in death by parents Roy and Martha Johnson; siblings Marilene McKenzie, Bob Johnson, Harold Johnson and Kenny Johnson.
 
The family would like to thank the staff at KU Medical Center for their care and dedication. Donations in Don’s honor may be made to their cancer research department at the link below.

A visitation for Don will be from 10:00am to 11:00am with a funeral service to follow at 11:00am officiated by Pastor Josh Herod, both at Pleasant Valley Baptist Church, 1600 NE Cookingham Drive, Liberty, MO 64068. Later that afternoon at 1:30pm, a graveside service will be at East Slope Cemetery, 5011 NW Gateway Avenue, Riverside, MO 64150.

Don's legacy of love and laughter will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His warm spirit and zest for life will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have crossed paths with him. Though we mourn his physical absence from our lives, we take comfort in knowing that he is now at peace after a lifetime of bringing joy to others.