Elizabeth Alice Garner Johnson, (Mamaw) of Kountze, Texas, passed away peacefully on May 13, 2026 at the age of 91. She was born on Jan. 29, 1935, in Alto, Texas, to Walter L. Garner and Mary Elizabeth McMinn Garner.
Elizabeth was a devoted wife and mother whose Christian faith guided her throughout her life. When she was living in Hardin, Texas she was a faithful member of Hardin Baptist Church. She served the Lord by singing in the choir and playing both the piano and organ. At the time of her death she was a member of Crestwood Baptist Church in Kountze, Texas. Her love for music and service to the church touched many lives over the years.
Known for her caring and selfless nature, Elizabeth was often described as a “mother hen” to everyone around her. She always placed the needs of others before her own and never hesitated to drop whatever she was doing to care for or spend time with her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her family was the center of her world, and she treasured every moment with them.
Elizabeth attended Stephen F. Austin State University, where she earned her Master of Education degree. She dedicated 40 years to education in Hardin ISD, teaching elementary music as well as fine arts, math, and science in Hardin Middle School. Her passion for teaching and nurturing children left a lasting impact on countless students and families throughout the community.
She was a resident of Bronson, Texas, before making her home in Hardin for 53 years and later residing in Kountze.
Elizabeth was preceded in death by her parents; and by her beloved husband of 61 years, David L. Johnson, Sr.
She is survived by her sons, David L. Johnson, Jr.; Robert L. Johnson and wife Becky; and Kevin W. Johnson and wife Stacey. She is also survived by her brother, Richard Garner and wife Judy and many nieces and nephews.
Elizabeth leaves behind cherished grandchildren: Kevin Johnson Jr. and wife Lauren, Jamie Kathleen Benton and husband Nick, Kyle Johnson and wife Samantha, Taylor Johnson, Kaila Foster and husband Matt, and Haley Flores and husband Josh.
She was also blessed with great-grandchildren: Remington Foster, Easton Foster, Max Benton, Riggins Foster, Mable Benton, Everett Foster, Henry Flores, Sophia Flores, and Baby Flores on the way.
The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Suzy Hanna, Haruna Hanna, Ashley Saures, Chloe Hollyfield, and the caring staff at Paradigm of the Pines in Silsbee, Texas for the compassion and care shown to Elizabeth.
Pallbearers will be Kevin Johnson Jr., Kyle Johnson, Taylor Johnson, Matt Foster, Josh Flores, Nick Benton, and Johnny Whitmire. Ralph Clark will serve as honorary pallbearer. Pastor Bill Fabriguze will officiate the service.
A visitation will be held Saturday, May 16, 2026, from 2 p.m. until 3 p.m. at Hardin Baptist Church. Funeral services will begin at 3 p.m., with burial to follow at Hardin Chapel Cemetery in Hardin.
Elizabeth’s kindness, faith, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will be treasured and remembered always.