Cecelia Mae Broderick Johnson

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Cecelia Mae Broderick Johnson, our beloved wife, mother, and grandmother, on November 30, 2024. She was born September 17, 1940, in Clarksville, Arkansas, to Frank and Veta Mae Broderick. Her upbringing in Clarksville, nurtured by her mother, grandfather, and Louise and Bill Podpechan, her aunt and uncle, instilled in her the values of resilience and compassion that she carried throughout her life. Cecelia graduated from Clarksville High School in 1958 and earned a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Arkansas Tech University in 1961. Her journey as an educator began in Charleston, Arkansas, where she met Bill Johnson, the boys' basketball coach. They married on July 21, 1962, and enjoyed a 62-year marriage. Cecelia and Bill’s life together took them to various towns, including Charleston, Marianna, Carlisle, and Bald Knob, where they raised two children, Valerie Lynn Johnson and William Jeffrey Johnson. Throughout her life, Cecelia was an avid bridge player and hosted bridge clubs for many years. Once Valerie and Jeff finished college, Cecelia returned to school to obtain a master's of science in educational leadership. After 26 years in the classroom as an English teacher, she took a position at the Arkansas Department of Education before retiring in 1997. Cecelia cherished her teaching career and remained in touch with many former students. In retirement, Cecelia found joy in traveling and exploring the world with Bill, relishing their adventures, especially in Europe. However, Cecelia’s greatest joy during retirement came from being “Gran” to her four grandchildren: Megan, Kelsey, Lydia, and Jack. Cecelia loved spoiling her grandkids and keeping rules to a minimum. Cecelia's life was a testament to the power of love, family, and faith. She was a longtime member of Bald Knob United Methodist Church, where her presence was a source of warmth and kindness. Cecelia is survived by her husband, Bill; her children, Valerie Johnson and Jeff (Katherine) Johnson; her grandchildren, Megan King, Kelsey (Charlie) Partin, Lydia Johnson, and Jack Johnson; and great-grandchild, Hayden Partin. Memorial services will be conducted on Wednesday, December 4, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. at Powell Funeral Home in Bald Knob, Arkansas. In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to Bald Knob United Methodist Church or the charity of your choice.

Cecelia Mae Broderick Johnson

September 17, 1940 - November 30, 2024