Velma Johnson

Velma Jean (Patty) Johnson, 88, of Berne, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, Aug. 19, 2025, at Adams Woodcrest in Decatur.

She was born on Sept. 10, 1936, in Wells County to John and Mary Lucille Patty and graduated from Geneva High School in 1954.

Velma was a long-time member of the First United Methodist Church of Geneva. She found joy in serving her church community by teaching, singing in the church choir and sharing her talents through special performances.

Velma’s creativity shone in everything she did. A talented seamstress, baker, artist and writer, she crafted tailored outfits, painted, decorated cakes and more. She was a devoted homemaker who helped run the family farm. Her cooking brought comfort and joy, and as a mother, she filled their home with laughter, songs and lasting memories.

Her grandchildren cherish the little things that made time with her unforgettable — her cheerful yodeling, the always-full candy drawer, the wind-up toys she saved just for them and her playful, quirky doodles.

She is survived by her children Tamela Bollenbacher (Terry), Cindy Misner (Paul), Doug Johnson (Carolyn), Stacy Johnson (Jeanine) and Cassy VanZant (Mark); along with 15 grandchildren and 26 great-grandchildren.

Velma was preceded in death by her parents; her sisters Mary Jane McKnight, Wilma Hall and Joan Schwartz; and her brother John Patty Jr.

A graveside service to honor and celebrate Velma’s life will be held on Sunday, Aug. 24, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at West Lawn Cemetery in Geneva.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Downing & Glancy Funeral Home in Geneva, Indiana.