Shirley Elaine Johnson, age 84, of Helena

Shirley Elaine Johnson passed away on July 26, 2025 in Helena, MT at the age of 84. She was born on October 8, 1940 in Topeka, Kansas to Maurice and Lillie Ackeret.

Shirley began her life in rural Kansas, the only child of Maurice and Lillie. She moved to Lebanon, Oregon at a young age. Following her graduation from Lebanon High, she went on to Seattle Pacific College, where she majored in Art and Education. During her time at SPC, she met Howard Johnson in a Spanish class. They married during her senior year of college and spent the first year of their marriage in Japan, where Howard was stationed with the Army. When they returned stateside, Shirley used her education degree to teach Kindergarten in Seattle and preschool in Port Orchard, WA. She went on to become the librarian at Chambers Primary School (University Place, WA) when it first opened; her two oldest grandchildren saw some of her remaining touches at Chambers Primary when they attended there decades later. 

When her children, Kevin and Lori, were teens, Shirley transitioned out of education into her second career as a hairdresser. She built a solid clientele over the years from the beauty shop attached to her home. Her clients became like family as they shared life stories together.

Shirley was a talented artist who loved to share her gift through practical crafts and decorating. Some of her projects included banners and decorations at church. Her home was always decorated for the current season. All of her grandchildren were impacted by her talents, whether it be in the creation of costumes, creating jewelry, or painting together – the memories are abundant!

Shirley and Howard had a true gift of hospitality. They readily welcomed guests into their home. A favorite memory is a house filled with candlelight, the smell of delicious food, and dozens of guests every Christmas Eve. 

She cherished spending time with her family, whether it be during the holidays or time in their family cabin at Hood Canal. In 2015, Howard and Shirley relocated to Helena, Montana to be closer to Lori and her family. She loved seeing her children and grandchildren in their concerts, theater performances and sporting events at both Curtis HS (University Place) and Capital HS (Helena).

Howard preceded Shirley in death by six weeks. Shirley is survived by her son, Kevin Johnson and his wife, Marci of University Place, WA; her daughter, Lori Michelotti and her husband, John of Helena, MT; grandchildren Kyle Johnson (Krista), Melissa Murakami (Josh), Rosie Michelotti, Nick Michelotti, Ellie Michelotti; and by her sister-in-law, Barbara of Sanford, FL.

She and Howard were active in several churches and generously gave their talents, time, and resources to a variety of causes. She lived out her faith wherever she was. She will be remembered for her kindness, spicy and assertive spirit, and advocacy for the good of others.

Shirley and Howard actively volunteered with and supported local food banks in their communities, including Families Unlimited Network (University Place) and Helena Food Share (Helena). In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution toward one of these great organizations or a local food bank of your choosing.

Service Schedule

Services are pending at this time or no services will be held. If available, please see obituary for more information.

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