Patricia Johnson

With heavy hearts but deep gratitude for her life, we remember Patricia Johnson, who passed away peacefully on July 13, 2026, in her beloved hometown of New Albany, Indiana. Patricia was born on October 28, 1963, in New Albany, the daughter of Shirley and Earl Smith, whose memory she has now joined.

A proud graduate of Ahrens High School, Patricia embodied the values of hard work and perseverance from a young age. Her strong work ethic was evident throughout her years making tee-shirts in a local factory, a role she fulfilled with both skill and quiet pride. Yet, her most treasured title was not that of employee, but as a faithful wife, loving mother, doting grandmother, and cherished great-grandmother.

Patricia’s family was her heart’s devotion. She is survived by her beloved husband, Donald Johnson, Jr., who remained steadfast by her side until her final moments. Together, they built a home that radiated love and warmth. Patricia’s legacy continues through her sons, Anthony Cress and Brad Richie, each a source of immense pride. Her love and nurturing spirit extended to her cherished grandchildren—Austin and Dallas Shanks, Addison Richie, Christopher and Autumn Cress, Kayla Toman, and Bethany Sanders. Their laughter, accomplishments, and milestones filled her heart with joy and brought immeasurable light to her days. Her legacy further sparkles in her great-grandchildren: Xander Brown, Charlie Shanks, Azmay Brown, Amethyst, Atticus and Juniper Shanks, Asher and Scarlet Sowders and Evelyn Toman, each a testament to the generations of kindness and compassion she inspired.

Patricia was one of 13 children and treasured the lifelong bond she shared with her siblings. She is survived by her brothers, John Shanks and Roger and Keith Smith, and her sisters, Linda and Cindy Smith. She carried great pride in being part of such a large family and treasured the love, laughter, and memories they shared throughout the years. Family gatherings, surrounded by brothers and sisters, echoed with love, gentle rivalry, and laughter—making memories that will live on in all who were privileged to share in her company.

She was truly a woman of unwavering faith, living out compassion and honesty in all that she did. Her character shone through as a loyal wife, a devoted mother, a loving grandmother, and a great-grandmother who doted on the youngest members of her family and found pure joy in their every accomplishment. Patricia’s gentle wisdom, coupled with her ready smile and open arms, made her the heart of every family event. She will be fondly remembered for the many ways she celebrated and encouraged her loved ones, always finding special joy in watching her family grow and thrive.

Her absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved her. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Shirley and Earl Smith, and her brother, Duane Smith. Their love, guidance, and enduring influence helped shape the remarkable woman Patricia became, and their memories remained close to her heart throughout her life.

To honor Patricia’s life, visitation will be held on Friday, July 24, 2026, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM at Newcomer Funeral Home, Southern Indiana, located at 3309 Ballard Ln, New Albany, IN 47150. A funeral service will follow at the same location, beginning at 12:00 PM, with a burial to follow at West Haven Cemetery.

Patricia Johnson’s story is one woven from love, resilience, and grace. As we gather to mourn her passing, we also celebrate the indelible mark she leaves in our hearts—the lessons of compassion, the bonds of kinship, and the enduring gift of family. She will be missed beyond measure, but her spirit will live on in the generations she cherished so deeply.