Theresa Mabel Johnson "Tessie"

Theresa Mabel Johnson

"Tessie"

February 15, 1935 - April 1, 2025

Theresa Mabel Johnson, lovingly known as "Tessie" passed away peacefully on April 1, 2025, surrounded by her family. She was born on February 15, 1935, to Annie Montoya and John V. Montoya.

Tessie grew up in Northern New Mexico, attending Our Lady of Guadalupe School and later Espanola High School. It was during these years that she met the love of her life, Arthur Johnson. They married on December 29, 1952, at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, beginning a beautiful journey together that spanned 69 years.

Tessie and Arthur built a loving family, raising their children with faith and devotion: Roberta (Daryl), Gary (Regina), Eric (Stacy), Ken (Lori), Jennifer, and Kevin (Janelle). Her greatest joy in life was her 36 beloved Grandchildren, Great-Grandchildren and many Nieces and Nephews who filled her heart with pride and happiness.

An active and dedicated member of her community, Tessie was involved in the Altar Society of St. John’s Catholic Church, the Santa Fe Elks Lodge #460 Doe's organization, the Sewing Club, and was a lifelong member of the Santa Fe Fiesta Council. She had a generous spirit and a deep love for her heritage, always giving her time to causes that strengthened her faith and community.

Tessie was a devoted parishioner of St. John's Catholic Church, where her faith remained a guiding light throughout her life.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Arthur, with whom she shared a lifetime of love and devotion.

Her family finds comfort in knowing that she has been reunited with him and that her legacy of kindness, faith, and love will live on in the many lives she touched.

She is also survived by Joseph Montoya, her last surviving brother who devotedly helped care for her in the final years of her life, Sister Virginia Salazar (Jake) and her sister-in-law Angela Montoya.

Pallbearers: Keith D'Angelico, Gary Johnson, Steven Johnson, Brandon Jiron, Justice Johnson, and Derek Johnson.

Honorary Pallbearers: Jose Ulibarri, Bryan Johnson, Antonio D'Angelico, Justin Jiron, Dion D'Angelico and Wesley Reinig.

Services will be held at St. John's Catholic Church on April 10, 2025 with a Rosary at 10:00 am and Mass following, interment at the National Cemetery on Friday, April 11, 2025 at 9:30am.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all who have shared in Tessie's journey and invites friends and loved ones to celebrate her remarkable life.