Kathryn Ida Johnson

Katherine Ida Johnson, lovingly known as “Kay,” passed away peacefully at the age of 90 on April 29, 2026.

Born on March 11, 1936, in Brooklyn, New York, Kay was raised in Franklin Square, Long Island, by her parents, Charles P. Kerber and Adeline E. Vedder. She graduated with honors from Cortland State Teachers College. On June 21, 1958, she married the love of her life, Wayne Johnson, and together they shared 55 loving years of marriage.

As a military family, Kay and Wayne began their married life in Alaska, where Wayne was stationed while serving in the U.S. Army. Their first son, Charles Wayne, was born in Anchorage, Alaska, at Elmendorf Air Force Hospital during Alaska’s historic year of statehood. In April of the following year, the family moved to Westwood, New Jersey, where Kay and Wayne built a loving home and raised their family for more than 50 years.

Kay was a devoted full-time mother who dedicated her life to caring for her family and creating a warm and loving home. She enjoyed watching the Hallmark Channel, reading romance novels, and spending time with family and friends.

Kay and Wayne shared a deep love of travel, especially train trips and railroad adventures around the country. They were proud members of the Bergen Rockland Railroad Club, where they built many lifelong friendships and shared countless happy memories. Their passion for trains became a special part of their life together and connected them to a large and cherished circle of friends.

Kay was truly one of the kindest and sweetest people anyone could ever know. Her gentle spirit, warm heart, and caring nature touched everyone fortunate enough to meet her. She made friends easily, always put others before herself, and brought comfort and joy to her family and loved ones throughout her life.

After Wayne’s passing on April 4, 2014, Kay moved to Florida with her son, Scott Bruce, to be closer to her son Charles Wayne and daughter-in-law, Lisa.

She is survived by her sons, Charles Wayne (Lisa) and Scott Bruce; her nephew Andrew and family; her niece, Lynne; and her great-nieces, Charlotte and Sarah, daughters of her beloved nephew Charles “Chip” Kerber.

Kay was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Charles P. Kerber and Adeline E. Vedder; her husband, Wayne Johnson; her brother, Charles Kerber; and her beloved nephew, Charles “Chip” Kerber, who passed away at the young age of 53.

Kay will be laid to rest with her parents at Greenfield Cemetery. A graveside service date for this July will be announced.

Her kindness, strength, and love for family will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew.