It is with great sadness that I announce the passing of my sister, Melanie Ann Johnson. She died yesterday, April 12, 2024, at the age of 62. Her illness which came on Sunday quickly transitioned into a severe case of pneumonia. She was admitted to ICU in Springfield, MO. Her body was not responding to treatments, and her condition continued to decline. She was miserable with shortness of breath, extreme sore throat and horrible back pain. Her only alternative was to continue current treatment (which wasn't working,) or be put on a ventilator. At that point she asked for DNR paperwork and asked to be "kept comfortable."

My sister always had a plan and was always in control. Just 2 days prior she was planning her ride for discharge. I believe in every aspect of her life she wanted to care for others and not be a burden. I believe that's why she made the choice that she did. All of her life decisions were based on whom she could help.

I know she was sad and lonely after losing her soulmate Robert "Bob" Phillips in Sept. '23. She moved to Missouri shortly after his passing to be close to me and my family. She left behind a Brother Danny Raber, myself her sister Michelle Boggs, her only Aunt, Linda Wright, Step mom Carlee Johnson, 10 nieces and nephews, cousins Leah and David, and many, many friends.
Nine days prior to her death she made a trip to Oklahoma to help her Bro. Danny. She used her expert clerical and technological skills to help him set up his new residence.

When she moved, she chose a home close to the hospital so I could sleep at her place between my 12-hour nightshifts. I will be constantly reminded of her because I can't get through the day without using some household gadget that she has given me. The thing that stands out most in my mind is how she was always giving. She would give anything she had if she thought it would be a help. The greatest gift I have from her is the knowledge that she was saved. She accepted Jesus as her personal savior which means she is in Heaven today and I will see her again!
She is no longer suffering with back pain, she is no longer fighting to breathe, she is no longer lonely or sad.

Psalm 16:11b says "...in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand are pleasures forevermore." Not only is she resting in peace but she is living in joy and pleasure. I can't help but think that her mansion in Heaven has a tennis court.

To anyone who reads this, if you don't know Jesus Christ as your personal savior, I plead with you to ask Him today. Romans 10:9-10 says "That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."

Goodbye for now Mel! You will be greatly missed by all! Thanks for being a great sister!