Funeral services for Mary G. Johnson, 72, of Chamberlain, SD will be 11:00 a.m., Thursday, September 26, 2024 at the Water of Life Assembly of God Church in Chamberlain.  Visitation will be from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., Wednesday at the Hickey Funeral Chapel in Chamberlain.  Burial will be at a later date.

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Mary Glenda "McCormick" Johnson, born on December 3, 1951, in Shreveport, Louisiana, to Peggy Lenell "Thomas" McCormick and Jack Hugh McCormick, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones. She attended school in Shreveport, Louisiana, where she enjoyed a childhood filled with music, dancing, and watching movies with her parents.

In her early adulthood, Mary moved to Dallas, Texas, where she married Paul David Ottmo in 1978. Together, they had a son, Jon Ottmo, before later divorcing. In 1988, Mary met Dari Johnson at a singles gathering at a local Four Square Church in Dallas. They were married in 1989, and Mary, Dari, and Jon moved to Chamberlain, South Dakota, where they later welcomed two more children, Josiah and Faith.

Mary worked as a waitress before finding her passion cooking meals at the local Senior Center. She retired after 15 years of service at the age of 62. Known for her love of food and her gift for making others feel loved and happy, Mary was a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother. Her warm hugs, joyful spirit, and love for her dogs and cats endeared her to all who knew her.

Described as strong, brave, loving, and genuine, Mary also had a sassy and sweet side. Above all, she was a follower of Jesus, with a tender heart and compassion that left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered.

Preceded in death by her mother Peggy, her sister Barbara, and her mother-in-law Elna Johnson (whom she considered a best friend), Mary is survived by her beloved husband Dari, her children Jon and Kayla Ottmo, Faith Johnson and Trent Hayes, and Josiah Johnson. She was a proud grandmother to six grandchildren: Michael, Chloe, Allison, Roran, Dax, and Orion. Mary is also survived by her sisters Janis Culver and Peggy Sue Choate of Louisiana.

Mary's kind and loving spirit will be missed by all who knew her. She left a legacy of love, strength, and faith that will continue to inspire her family and friends.

Mary passed away on September 20, 2024 at Sanford Medical Center in Chamberlain.