May 18, 1933 ~ October 29, 2023 Barbara Ann Johnson (nee Little)

Barbara Ann Johnson (née Little) transitioned from this life on October 29, 2023 with her son and daughter-in-law at her side.

Barbara was born May 18, 1933 in Aurora. She grew up in Central City, and graduated from Central City High School in 1951. After a year at Hastings College, she became engaged to Richard Johnson, and they were married on November 2, 1952, just prior to Richard’s tour of duty in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. After Richard was discharged from the Army they moved to Peoria, Illinois where Richard attended the Bradley University School of Horology. Upon his graduation, they moved to Colorado, initially moving to Boulder before settling in Denver. Barbara worked for UnitedAirlines until her son, Bret, was born. Once Bret started school Barbara worked as the church secretary at Grace United Methodist Church, in the Personnel Department at Diner’s Club, and for the Rocky Mountain Conference of the United Methodist Church. While working full-time, Barbara resumed her education and earned a Bachelor of Arts degree from Regis University in 1990. She retired from the conference office in 1993.

Even during her “retirement”, Barbara worked for concert promoters, worked numerous conventions and trade shows, and volunteered at the Denver Botanic Gardens, for the Arthritis Foundation, and as a dresser for Phamaly Theatre Company productions.

Barbara enjoyed travel and took many trips, often with her sisterin- law, Gloria Allbright (née Johnson). She was a lover of the arts and literature, introducing her granddaughters to Jane Austen, music, theatre, dance, and fine dining. She was also passionate about live theatre, frequently attending shows with her son and daughter-in-law. When her son married into a large extended family, she was welcomed into that group and was cherished for her wit and lively conversation.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Bessie Little, her brother Frank Little, sister Alice Bennett, and husband Richard. She is survived by her brother Don (Betty)Little, son Bret Johnson (Ann), and granddaughters Sarah Boyajian (Anthony) and Christina Johnson.

The family will host a celebration of life at their home in Denver, on November 19 from noon to 4pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Arthritis Foundation, Denver Botanic Gardens, Phamaly Theatre Company, Heifer International, or your favorite local theatre company.