GaLeen Vernon Johnson

GaLeen Vernon Johnson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and dear friend passed away Sunday, July 19, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of faith, kindness and devotion to those around her. She was born on March 28, 1936, in Hoytsville, Utah, in the home of her parents Grant DeVar Vernon and Gwendolin Marie Mills Vernon where she developed a love for the simple joys in life and the value of hard work.

She married her high school sweetheart, David Kay Johnson in 1956 in the Salt Lake Temple. After they graduated, they moved to Salt Lake City where she worked for Mt. Fuel Supply Co. while Dave attended the University of Utah earning degrees in Electrical Engineering and a PhD in Biophysics and Bioengineering.

GaLeen was a devoted mother to three children, Diane (David) Child, Kirk (Kate) Johnson, Kyle (Ann) Johnson. She lived in the same house on Cherry Blossom Lane in Holladay, Utah, that she and Dave purchased together in 1959, for sixty-seven years. She cherished her family and the memories they shared there. Anyone who visited her home was treated to homemade caramels, toffee or her famous peach ice cream, along with a recap of the most recent ball game. She was a steadfast Utah Ute and enjoyed attending her children and grandchildren’s sporting events and musical performances. She loved horses and dogs and shared a special bond with her childhood horse, Roany.

GaLeen was a loyal friend and had many decades-long friendships she cherished. Each week you could find her sitting around the table with her bridge ladies with a Tab/Diet Coke in hand taking tricks and winning nickels. She was also an avid bowler where she often led the league with the women’s high average. She enjoyed playing golf with her family and meeting her mother on the back nine at Mountain Dell.

A faithful member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints, and beloved member of the Holladay 26 th Ward. Her faith was a guiding influence in her life. She loved Heavenly Father and had a powerful testimony of our Savior, Jesus Christ. She served others with a willing heart and showed love through many small and meaningful ways in the church, but coach and athletic director were her favorite. She helped encourage and mentor youth as she shared her love of sports with each one.

GaLeen is survived by her children, eight grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren, along with extended family and loved ones who will honor her memory and cherish the life she lived for years to come. She was preceded in death by her husband, David Kay Johnson, her parents Grant and Marie Vernon, her sister, ReeNee Kerr, and her brother DeVar Vernon.

The family is grateful for the many years they were blessed to have GaLeen in their lives. Her greatest legacy is the example she leaves behind through her faith, her perseverance through life’s challenges, and her unconditional love.