Gene Paul Johnson, age 87, a lifelong resident of Vallonia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

He joined the family funeral business in 1967 and, following his father’s retirement in 1969, became the third-generation owner. Johnson Funeral Home was established in 1912 by Gene’s grandfather, Elmer Johnson, and Gene carried that legacy forward with pride. Throughout his life, he remained connected to the funeral home and the community it served, always valuing the importance of caring for families with compassion and dignity. In June of 2000, Gene’s daughter, Jackie, joined the family business. In the funeral profession, one truly never retires. He continued to help as he was able and especially enjoyed watching the success of his family business.