Linda Johnson

Obituary for Linda Arlene Johnson

With heavy hearts, we announce the peaceful passing of Linda Arlene Johnson, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and faithful servant of Christ. Linda entered into the loving arms of her Savior on July 10, 2025, in Lake Stevens, Washington, at the age of 77.

Born on December 18, 1947, in Bellingham, Washington, Linda was the eldest of six children born to Pierson and Ann (Klein) Dykstra. She was raised on the family farm in Sumas, WA, where she developed a strong work ethic, a deep love of family, and an enduring faith. Linda graduated from Lynden Christian School, forming friendships and values that shaped her life.

On November 25, 1967, Linda married the love of her life, Carl Edward Johnson, in Sumas, WA. Together they built a life centered on faith, love, and family. Linda was a dedicated and nurturing mother to her three children—Kenneth, Kimberly, Matthew, and bonus child Ruth Ann (niece)—and took immense joy in being present for every milestone of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Linda’s greatest calling was caring for others, especially her beloved grandchildren, who were the light of her life. She poured her heart into creating a home filled with love, building lasting bonds and memories with each grandchild. In addition to her devotion to family, Linda also opened her home as a foster parent through Healing the Children, graciously hosting children from Russia, India, South Korea, Mexico, and Guatemala. Her gentle spirit and unwavering kindness touched every life she encountered.

Linda was a gifted homemaker who delighted in gardening, canning, and especially baking. Her pies, cookies, and home-cooked meals brought comfort and joy to many. One of her most beloved traditions was building handmade gingerbread houses with her granddaughters every Christmas—a tradition filled with laughter, love, and frosting.

She also had a passion for quilting, generously sharing her handmade creations with family, friends, and those in need. Her deep faith led her to active participation in Bible studies, where her insights and encouragement blessed those around her.

Linda is survived by her loving husband of 57 years, Carl; children Kenneth (Karlynn) Johnson, Kimberly (Ray) Toler, and Matthew (Rachel) Johnson; grandchildren Breanna (Tyler) Tuiasosopo, Allison (Jacob) Bowen, Sydney (Michael) Toler-Scoggins, Lacey Johnson, Zachary (Brooklyn) Johnson, Oscar Johnson, Truman Johnson, and Poppy Johnson; and seven adored great-grandchildren. She is also survived by her special great-nieces Megan (Devon) Glisson and Lindsey (Tony) Hall; her siblings Duane (Alyda) Dykstra, Marlene (Dale) TerWisscha, Vernon (JoAnn) Dykstra, Glen (Alice) Dykstra; and numerous nieces and nephews who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

She was preceded in death by her father Pierson, mother Ann, brother Ron, and special niece Ruth Ann.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, July 18, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Sumas Christian Reformed Church, with a reception to follow. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 17, 2025, from 6:00–8:00 PM at Gillies Funeral Home in Lynden, WA. Private graveside services will be held Friday, July 18, 2025 at 12:00 pm at Sumas Cemetery. Additional details for live-streaming and tributes can be found on www.gilliesfuneralhome.com

In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to Snohomish Community Church, in honor of Linda’s legacy of faith.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

Funeral arrangements are entrusted to Gillies Funeral Home and Cremation Services.