Diane Mary Johnson

Diane Mary Johnson

Diane Mary Johnson, age 94, of Chico, California, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 28, 2026. A devoted mother, grandmother, and respected member of the community, she leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and dedication.

Diane was born in Glendale, California, on December 22, 1931, to the late Gladys Ulmen Swanson and Urban Ulmen. She was raised in Southern California and graduated from El Monte High School in 1950. Demonstrating leadership from an early age, she attended Mt. San Antonio College, where she achieved the distinction of serving as the school's first-ever female Freshman Class President.

In 1961, Diane made Chico her home, where she resided for sixty-five years. A loving and dedicated mother, she raised her five children with grace and devotion. She was employed for many years as a library assistant at Chico State’s Meriam Library, where her warmth and helpful nature touched many before her retirement in 1995.

In 1979, she married Jim Johnson. Together, they shared many wonderful years, embarking on numerous RV travels with their beloved Elks family and volunteering countless hours to community service projects through the Elks Lodge. An avid gardener, Diane found great peace tending to the beautiful roses in her yard. She also enjoyed reading, sewing, and baking. Her greatest joy, however, was her family, and she cherished every moment spent in the company of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Diane was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jim Johnson; her two sons, Bobby Ridenour and Jimmy Ridenour; her parents, Gladys Ulmen Swanson and Urban Ulmen; her brother, Chuck Ulmen; and her sisters, Sandy Kobrine, Joan Hildreth, and Carol Mang.

She is survived and will be deeply missed by her son, Steve Ridenour, and his wife, Cindy; her daughters, Marie Ridenour, and Patti Salomon and her husband, Jeff; her three grandchildren; and her four great-grandchildren.

A funeral mass will be held on Wednesday, September 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Our Divine Savior Catholic Church, located at 566 E. Lassen Avenue, Chico, California. Committal services and interment will follow immediately at Glen Oaks Memorial Park, situated at Hegan Lane & Midway in Chico.