Shirley Johnson

Shirley Ann Johnson, née Grapner, age 89, of Elida, Ohio, passed away on March 14, 2026, at Vancrest of Delphos Nursing Facility, surrounded by her loving family. Born on October 29, 1936, in Elida to the late George and Kathryn (Sawmiller) Grapner, she grew up with her brothers Denny (Carole) Grapner and Terry (Kathy) Grapner, who survive her, and her half-brother Bill (Marilyn) Clinger of California, who preceded her in death.

A 1955 graduate of Elida High School, Shirley married Robert Johnson on March 8, 1956. The couple made their home in the Elida community, where they raised their daughters and grandchildren. A longtime faithful member of the Lima Community Church of the Nazarene, Shirley spent many years as a homemaker and neighborhood babysitter before working at Elder-Beerman. She was known for her generous spirit, especially at Christmastime, when she delighted in creating memorable holidays for her family. Her home on Weger Street was the warm heart of family life, where she tended her flowers and garden, relaxed on her porch swing with bare feet in the grass, and enjoyed lively conversations with neighbors.

Shirley cherished Gatlinburg vacations, adopted every stray cat that crossed her path, and remained a devoted supporter of the Elida Bulldogs and Ohio State Buckeyes. She loved a good Kewpee hamburger with extra onions and a slice of pie, and her quick, sarcastic humor—often calling those she cared for “brat”—left a lasting impression on everyone who knew her. She is survived by her daughters, Lynnette Musto of Cincinnati and Natalie (Dave) Lee of Elida; grandchildren Katie (Dan) Sadler of Elida, Jason (Jessica) Musto of Cincinnati, Nicholas (Susan) Musto of Lebanon, and Andrea (Kyle) Howard of Columbus; and many great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her son-in-law Frederick Deerhake and several in-laws.

Those who loved Shirley will remember her giving heart, her playful ornery streak, and the countless small ways she showed her devotion to family. Her home was always open, stocked with snacks and craft supplies, and filled with love.