Mrs. Gene H. Johnson

Mrs. Gene H. Johnson, age 90, of Thomaston, passed away on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, at Brightmoor Nursing Center in Griffin.

Born on July 24, 1935, in Griffin, Georgia, Gene enriched the lives of those around her through her unwavering commitment to family, education, and community service. Gene was a proud graduate of R.E. Lee Institute and the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, where she fostered lifelong friendships and connections as an active alumna of the Gamma Alpha chapter of Delta Gamma Fraternity.

In addition to her roles within her family, Gene was an active member of the First Methodist Church of Thomaston, where she attended the Paul Schumacher Sunday School Class and served as a past president of the United Methodist Women. Her commitment to service extended beyond the church, as she was a member and past regent of the John Houstoun Chapter of the National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution, highlighting her dedication to preserving history and heritage. Gene’s passion for gardening was evident in her involvement with the Spade and Trowel Garden Club, of which she was both a former member and past president. She was also recognized as a life member of the Upson Regional Medical Center Auxiliary, volunteering her time as a "Pink Lady". Additionally, she contributed to the culture and history of her community as a member of the Upson Historical Society.

Throughout her life, Gene exemplified the qualities of a devoted daughter, sister, loving mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, mother-in-law, and friend. She is survived by her three sons, David Lowell (Joyce) McSwain of Thomaston, Mark Wayne (Lori) McSwain of Thomaston, and Thomas Eugene (Pam) McSwain of Valdosta. Gene also leaves behind two step-sons, Gregory (Carol) Johnson of Morgan Hill, California, and Kristopher (Lee) Johnson of Mount Airy, Maryland. Her legacy continues through her eight grandchildren, four step-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews.

Gene is predeceased by her parents, Sidney Wayne Hempstead and Doris Kissinger Hempstead, her husband, Leon Darrell Johnson, her sister, Joanne Hempstead Stanfill, and the father of her sons, Clifford Lowell McSwain. Her kindness, wisdom, and love will be deeply missed by all who knew her. Mrs. Johnson’s influence will forever resonate within her family and the community she so fervently served.

A funeral service for Gene will be held on Saturday, February 21, at 2:00 PM, at Thomaston First Methodist Church. Rev. John Halley will officiate, and interment will follow at South View Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until 2:00 PM in the church fellowship hall.

Those desiring may make memorial contributions to Thomaston First Methodist Church, P.O. Box 707, Thomaston, GA 30286.

Fletcher-Day Funeral Home is in charge of all arrangements. Condolences and remembrances may be expressed at www.fletcherdayfuneralhome.com.