Dorothy Fern Johnson, 86 of Paron, AR passed away peacefully on April 14 in her home. Fern was born to the late Monroe Alexander Johnson and Cornelia "Neely" Ann Lewis Johnson.

She is preceded in death by her husband of 65 years Rodney Burton Johnson, her parents, siblings Clarence "Dick" Johnson, Ralph "Yankup" Johnson, Fleetie "Mutt" Drennan, Florence Summerville and several nieces and nephews.

Fern is survived by daughters Debbie (Mark) Modlin and Donna (Rob) Eckman; sons Bart Johnson and Rocky (Teresa) Johnson; grandchildren Chrystal (Adam) Baker, Lee (Penny) Modlin, Nicole Hobbs, Derrell Johnson & Samantha Talley; 9 great grandchildren and 2 great-great grandchildren.

Fern was of the Baptist faith. She was a homemaker. She enjoyed being outside, working in her yard, taking care of her flowers and her pets. She was a talented seamstress and quilter. She was adamant that traveling with her best friend of 72 years, Nell Yates, was some of the best times of her life. She had fond memories of their adventures across the United States. Together, Rodney and Fern liked to visit estate sales and auctions collecting treasures to enjoy and sell at a local flea market.

Her family will miss Fern's tasty meals, words of wisdom, funny stories, quick wit, cooking and gardening tips, and motherly love.

Visitation will be held at Ashby's Funeral Home on Monday April 22 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

Fern will be laid to rest at Walnut Bottoms Cemetery in Paron. There will be a graveside service only on Tuesday April 23 at 2:00 pm officiated by Pete Taylor.

Pallbearers are: Clint Vocque, Kevin Waddell, Clay Johnson, Adam Baker, Darrell Drennan & Donnie Odle. Honorary pallbearer: Charlie Feldman.