Oma C. Johnson

Oma C. Johnson, a cherished matriarch and beloved member of her community, passed away peacefully on June 18, 2026, at Addison Place. Born at home on September 26, 1933, in Albany, Kentucky to Stanley and Cora (Jones) Shelton, she was the fourth of six children. At the age of three, the family moved to New Castle where she attended New Castle Schools. At the age of 19, Oma met the love of her life, Eugene Johnson and they were united in marriage on December 13, 1952.

Throughout her life, Oma demonstrated a remarkable spirit and a zest for life that inspired all who knew her. She worked in the men's dept. of JC Penney in New Castle where she later retired from the catalog dept on December 3, 1991. Oma was saved at the age of 12 and served her Lord faithfully throughout her life. She attended Spiceland Church of the Nazarene for many years and recently worshipped at Mt. Zion Wesleyan Church. She was an avid hobbyist, lovingly making stuffed bears that reflected her gentle nature. Her adventurous heart led her to travel extensively, having visited nearly all 50 states, embracing the richness of diverse landscapes and cultures. Oma was also a successful entrepreneur, managing an eBay business with diligence and care. Her culinary talents were well known and celebrated; she cooked hearty family meals and baked birthday and wedding cakes for relatives, turning every occasion into a treasured memory. A lover of words and friendly competition, she enjoyed playing Scrabble, always relishing the time shared with loved ones over a game.

Family was the cornerstone of Oma’s life. She treasured her role as a mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, placing the happiness and wellbeing of her family above all else. Her sons, Mike (Virginia) Johnson of New Castle and Steve (Debbie) Johnson of Anderson, carry forward her legacy of love and steadfastness. Oma’s generous spirit extended further to her five grandchildren: Jonathan (Brooke) Johnson of Connersville, Jennifer (Jeremy) Fox of New Castle, Julie (Matt) Turner of Springport, Brynne Johnson of Anderson, and Brooke (Birjan) Crispin of Anderson. Her warmth and affection extended to her great-grandchildren, Rebecca and Ryan Johnson, Jillian and Jacob Fox, Maddy, Katie and Josie Turner, and Abigail Crispin, each of whom held a special place in her heart. She also leaves her beloved dog, Tippy.

She is also survived by her sister-in-law Mary Justice of Manilla, Indiana; her brother-in-law David (Cecely) Johnson of New Castle as well as several nieces and nephews who remember her fondly.

Oma was preceded in death by her beloved husband of sixty-three years, Gene Johnson, who passed in 2016. She is also mourned alongside the memories of her parents and siblings: Levi Shelton, Lucille Willen, Eva Brewster, Bob Shelton, and Donna Gross as well as her in-laws, James and Matilda Johnson.

Her life was one marked by warmth, creativity, and an unshakeable devotion to those she loved. Oma’s legacy will live on in the hearts of her family and all who had the privilege to know her. Her enduring spirit and loving nature will continue to inspire and guide her family for generations to come. 

Oma leaves us with these words: "I have finished the race; I have kept the course. Therefore, I am ready to see what the Lord has prepared for me. The mortal cannot house my soul; therefore, the Lord has prepared a place for my soul to live forever and never die".

Services will be held at 1:00pm Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle with Pastors Rick Shelton, Chuck Justice and Brian Justice officiating. Burial will follow in South Mound Cemetery, West Lawn Addition. Visitation will be from 11:00 until the time of the service on Wednesday. Memorial contributions may be given to The Guest House Homeless Shelter, 1407 Walnut Street, New Castle, IN 47362. You may express condolences or share a memory of Oma at www.hinsey-brown.com