Mary Ellen Johnson

Mary Ellen Johnson, 86, of Van Buren, Arkansas, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, December 23, 2025. A retired registered nurse, Mary was a proud member of the Van Buren High School Class of 1957, where she was honored as Homecoming Queen. She devoted 30 years to supporting her family as a military spouse and was a member of the Garden Club. A faithful member of Kibler United Methodist Church, Mary was, above all else, a devoted mother and grandmother who cherished her family deeply.

Mary was born September 20, 1939 in Kibler, Arkansas to the late John S. and Clarine (Roberts) Bell. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Colonel James C. Johnson, and her sister, Charlotte Sue Reed.

Mary is survived by her children, Steve Johnson and wife Melinda of Van Buren, Arkansas, Carol Johnson of Waco, Texas, and Andrew Johnson of Austin, Texas; grandchildren, Stephanie Tuma of Lindale, Texas, Clint Johnson and his wife Courtney of Washington D.C., Jerrica McKinley and husband Jason of Conway, Arkansas, Rickelle Garrett of Newport, Arkansas; 5 great-grandchildren, and a sister, Judith Ann Campbell of Coweta, Oklahoma.

Funeral service will be 9:30 A.M. Tuesday, December 30, 2025 at Ocker Funeral Home in Van Buren, Arkansas with interment to follow at the United States National Cemetery in Fort Smith, Arkansas. The family will visit with friends from 5:00 P.M. till 7:00 P.M. Monday, December 29, 2025 at Ocker Funeral Home in Van Buren, Arkansas. Pastor Dale Richardson will be officiating the service. The family will receive friends immediately after the comital service at 11:30 at Las Fresas in Van Buren.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ocker Funeral Home.