Sara Jane Johnson

On November 14, 2025, just two months shy of her 99th birthday, Sara Jane Johnson (Burnett) went to be with the Lord.
Sara was born at the Halle farm (now Penitentiary Glen Reservation) in Kirtland, Ohio, on January 15, 1927. She and her five siblings were raised on this incredible property, managed by her parents. Sara treasured these memories and spent many years visiting her first home. She and her siblings happily gave presentations about their time there.
Sara was married to her beloved Ben Johnson for seventy-three years. They married in Perry, Ohio on June 14th, 1947. They raised their four children at 4183 Kirtland Rd in Willoughby. Sara loved music and loved dancing too. She enjoyed nature and family throughout her life. She kept a lovely garden full of color and beauty year-round. Her mailbox was hand painted and surrounded by exquisite morning glories, a special feature on Kirtland Road. She was an accomplished artist, a competitive gamer, and a proud south paw. She and her siblings got together to celebrate every birthday with lunch and cards. Sara enjoyed working at JC Penneys and at Willoughby City Hall. She and Ben were active members of Kirtland Bethel Bible Church for many years.
She will be remembered for hosting the Christmas party for the large Johnson family every year. Everyone loved her gorgeous table settings, her delicious fizzy bowl of punch, and her famous homemade salad dressing.
She was a homebody but traveled some after Ben retired, enjoying winters in Florida, Arizona and Texas. She had a voracious sweet tooth, always needing “a little sweet sweet” after most meals.
Sara lived out her last few years in the care of her youngest child and namesake, Sarajane, in The Woodlands, Texas. There she enjoyed mornings with her French pastries and coffee, in her favorite chair, looking out the window at a garden filled with flowers, birds, and squirrels.
She was a strong woman, with an ever-present sense of humor and a charming little giggle in conversation. There will never be another like her and she will be dearly missed.
Sara is survived by her son Mark Johnson, daughter Sarajane Bissig and daughter-in-law, Kathleen Johnson. She is affectionately remembered by nine grandchildren, eighteen great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, along with many nieces and nephews.
She was proceeded in death by her husband Ben Johnson, sons; Jeff Johnson and Al Johnson, grandson Zak Johnson, brother John Burnett, sisters; Lois Leggett, Judy Rummel, Nancy Advey, and Joan Burkholder-Adams, and parents; John and Hazel Burnett.
Sara will be laid to rest at Perry Cemetery. A short graveside service will be held on November 26, 2025 at 11 am. A celebration of life will be held at a later date in the Fall of 2026.