Judy Arlene Johnson, 85, of South Bend, Washington, went home to be with her Lord in Heaven on September 22, 2026. She leaves behind a legacy of faith, family, and community.

Judy was born on May 6, 1941, in Elma, Washington to Margaret Eleanor (Bemis) Dotson and Forrest Wayne Dotson. Her parents and brother, Wayne Eugene Dotson, preceded her in death. She attended Willapa Valley schools and graduated in 1959.

Judy was married to Darrell R. Manlow of Willapa Valley from 1961 until his passing in 1968. They had three sons: Richard Manlow (1962), Steven Manlow (1964), and Darren Manlow (1968).

Judy married Herbert E. Johnson Jr. of South Bend in 1969. Their son, Michael Johnson, was born in 1970. Together, Judy and Herbie raised the four boys while successfully managing the family business, Pioneer Grocery. At the store, her hard-working nature and belief in others to rise to the occasion earned her the nickname of “the Whip” which she bore with her excellent sense of humor. Judy’s wit and humor are proudly carried by her four sons today. Judy also served on the South Bend City Council for many years.

Judy’s love never needed to be earned but was always given in selfless abundance. She saw the best in people, could wield loyalty and honesty simultaneously, and was a woman of great compassion. One of her passions was “making a difference in little lives” through foster care, hosting over a dozen children in her years of service. Judy could make a stranger quickly feel like family, and she touched the lives of many extra "sons and daughters" over the years with her love, compassion and wise counsel.

It was Judy’s desire to share her love for Jesus, and that was evident in the unconditional love she shared. She did not shout her faith from her hilltop, but she was quiet and steadfast in her morality, charity, and devotion to lifting others up. If you ever felt special to Judy, it is because she truly remembered and cared about those around her.

She loved attending church and anchored her life in prayer. She devoured hundreds of books. Her stubbornness and independence earned her a fair share of funny stories at her expense. Most of all, and in Judy’s words, “My kids, grandkids, and great grandchildren are my life!”

Judy was preceded in death by her husband Herb in 2004. She is survived by her four sons and their spouses, eight grandkids, and eight great-grandchildren.

Judy’s wish for no services will be honored by the family who will celebrate her life privately. If you wish to honor her memory, please consider donating in her name to the South Bend or Raymond Fire Departments.