Barbara Sue Johnson

Barbara Reed Johnson, 80, died peacefully at her home on July 23, 2023, surrounded by her family, friends, and beloved pets.

Born in the “Y” Community in Cleveland County, she moved with her parents, Jennings and Valerie Reed, to Pine Bluff where she graduated from Watson Chapel High School. After attending secretarial school, she went to work at The Pine Bluff Commercial until her marriage to James Johnson. Following her divorce, she went to work for Jefferson Hospital and moved on to the Southeast Arkansas Mental Health Center, now Southeast Arkansas Behavioral Health, where she spent the next 43 years in the Finance Department. Barbara loved her co-workers and was known for her remarkable baked goods that she brought in every Monday morning. She single-handedly broke the will of many people hoping to lose weight.

In retirement, she continued to bake and deliver her amazing treats. She enjoyed dinner with high school classmates every Thursday night and watched with pride as her only grandchild grew into a wonderful young man. Many benefitted from her wise counsel, and she was considered a bonus mom by many.

She is survived by her three daughters, Debra (Julie) Aring of Atlanta, Lisa Johnson of Conway, and Jamie Adams of Pine Bluff. Her grandson, Garrett Adams (Kim) of Little Rock. She is preceded in death by her parents and her brother, Jim Reed.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to Arkansas Children’s Hospital or the charity of your choice.

Memorial services will be 2:00 p.m., Saturday, July 29, 2023 at Buie Funeral Home in Rison, with visitation one hour prior to the service.

Arrangements by Buie Funeral Home if Rison (870) 325-6216.  

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