Lydia Irby Johnson, a beloved educator and cherished family member, passed away on January 20, 2026, after courageously battling cancer.
She was born on September 21, 1948, in Canton, MS. She was a devoted wife, loving mother and proud grandmother. She dedicated 20 years of her life to shaping young minds as an elementary school teacher at Black Mountain Primary School in North Carolina. She left lasting impressions on those fortunate enough to know her. She would brighten any room she walked in.
Lydia leaves behind her loving husband of 57 years, Lonnie C. Johnson. She is survived by her children, Russ Johnson and his wife, Presley of Lindale, TX, Mandy Mitchell and her husband, Darrell, of Mansfield, TX, Brian Johnson and his wife, Jennifer, of Asheville, NC. Lydia cherished her grandchildren; Mary Stewart Ehlers and her husband, Clayton, Ana Russell Johnson, Hailey Mitchell, Ainsley Mitchell, Peyton Johnson and Landon Johnson, and was eagerly awaiting the arrival of her first great grandchild in August 2026.
Preceding her in death was her parents, T.R. Irby and Ruby Bates Irby, her two brothers, Colbert Irby and Tom Irby.
Pallbearers were Dr. Steve Green, Ty Irby, Trent Irby, Tal Irby, Peyton Johnson and Landon Johnson.
Honorary pallbearers were Bernard King, CL Presley, Jimmy Presley, Sen. Dean Kirby and Rep. Randy Rushing.
Visitation was held 12:00 pm - 1:45 pm Friday, January 23, 2026, at Ott and Lee Funeral Home in Brandon with Chapel service following at 2:00. Private graveside followed at River Bend Baptist Cemetery. Bro. Guy Odom, Bro. Kevin Griffin and Bro. Bobby Tagert officiated the services.
Ott and Lee Funeral Home in Brandon is honored to serve the Johnson family.
