Gene Paul Johnson, age 87, a lifelong resident of Vallonia, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at his home surrounded by his loving family.

Gene was a devoted, lifelong member of Vallonia Christian Church, where he faithfully served as a deacon for many years and later as an elder. His faith was central to his life, and he was especially proud to have raised his family in the church.

Gene was a 1956 graduate of Vallonia High School, and he went on to attend the Kentucky School of Mortuary Science in Louisville.

He joined the family funeral business in 1967 and, following his father’s retirement in 1969, became the third-generation owner. Johnson Funeral Home was established in 1912 by Gene’s grandfather, Elmer Johnson, and Gene carried that legacy forward with pride. Throughout his life, he remained connected to the funeral home and the community it served, always valuing the importance of caring for families with compassion and dignity. In June of 2000, Gene’s daughter, Jackie, joined the family business. In the funeral profession, one truly never retires. He continued to help as he was able and especially enjoyed watching the success of his family business.

He served his community in many ways, including serving on the Schneck Medical Center Hospital Board, the Hoosier Christian Village Board, and the Vallonia Cemetery Board.  He was a former member of the Vallonia Lions Club and served on the founding committee of Fort Vallonia Days. He was a member of the Medora Masonic Lodge N. 328 for 63 years.

Gene was known for his tireless work ethic and servant’s heart. He was always working and taking care of something—or someone—and took great pride in the beauty of both the funeral home and his own home through mowing, pulling weeds, and planting flowers.

Born on May 24, 1938, at his home in Vallonia, Gene was the son of Oris Glen, Sr. and Delores Mae (Slade) Johnson, both of whom preceded him in death. On February 20, 1966, he married Mary Beth Bottorff at Cortland Christian Church, and she survives in Vallonia.

Together, alongside Mary, Gene was honored to serve families through the funeral home, raise their girls, and enjoy life together. Their partnership was one rooted in faith, service, and love for family.

Gene was a devoted father of three daughters: Jennifer L. Johnson of Seymour, Peggy (Jeff) Franklin of Seymour, and Jackie (Lonny) Gibson of Vallonia. His greatest pride and joy were his grandchildren, Madeline Gibson and Paul Gibson.

Survivors also include his brother, Oris Glen Johnson, Jr. of Chesterfield, Missouri; his sister, Mary Janette (Eugene) Fleetwood of Seymour; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Gene was also preceded in death by two brothers, Larry Johnson and Dennis Johnson; and his sister-in-law, Jane Johnson.

Funeral services for Gene Paul Johnson will be conducted at 12:00 p.m. Saturday, February 7, 2026, at Vallonia Christian Church with Pastor Michael Hogg officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, February 6, 2026, at Johnson Funeral Home, Vallonia, and on Saturday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the Church.

The burial will take place at Vallonia Cemetery.

Memorials may be given to Vallonia Christian Church or Schneck Medical Center Hospice.