Mary Christine Johnson

Mary Christine “Chris” Johnson departed this life peacefully on September 19, 2026, surrounded by her children 

and life partner, to eternal life with her Lord and savior Jesus Christ.

Born in Charleston, South Carolina, in 1952, Chris grew up in Athens, Georgia,

where she developed the strength, wit, and independent spirit that would define her

throughout her life. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a degree in

sociology and remained a devoted Bulldogs fan for the rest of her days.

In 1974, she married Christopher Johnson. They moved to Phoenix, Arizona,

where they raised their two children, Dustin and Abigail. Chris formed lifelong

friendships in Phoenix. She volunteered for many years at the Phoenix Zoo. Chris also

co-owned and was actively involved with the Nu Towne Saloon for several years,

becoming a cherished member of a community that brought her boundless joy and

many enduring friends.

After separating from her husband Christopher, Chris shared a close and loving

partnership with Greg Norris, whose friendship and companionship were an important

part of her life. In the years following Greg’s death, Chris reconnected with an old friend

from the University of Georgia, Jimmy Ellis. She joined Jimmy in Hilton Head, South

Carolina. With much love, they enjoyed cheering on the Georgia Bulldogs and making

annual Thanksgiving trips to Phoenix to be with her children and grandchildren. Through

it all, Chris continued to embrace life with the same resilience and vitality that had

always characterized her.

Chris was vivacious, intelligent, strong-willed, and endlessly engaging, with a

sparkle in her eye that often hinted that something fun was about to happen. She was

an accomplished cook, a lifelong lover of birds, and a volunteer at the Hilton Head

Island Bird Sanctuary. Whether among family, old friends, or new acquaintances, she

had a gift for making people feel welcome and valued.

Above all, Chris was devoted to her family. She adored her children, Dustin

Johnson and his wife, Kristen, and Abigail Smithwick and her husband, Greg, and

delighted in her grandchildren, Sophie, Zoë, and Kayden Smithwick. She is also

survived by her beloved partner, Jimmy Ellis; her sister, Winslow Loomis and her

husband, Dennis; her brothers, John Kuney and his wife, Julie, and Mark Kuney; and

six nieces and nephews.

Chris's family will remember her for her fierce love, quick intelligence, unwavering

loyalty, and generous heart. Her absence leaves an immeasurable void, but the

laughter, friendship, and love she shared will remain with all who knew her.

A celebration of Chris's life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorial

donations may be made to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.