Kay (Crampton) Johnson

Kay Johnson passed away peacefully on Saturday, August 22, 2026.

Kay is survived by her loving husband of 68 years, Jerry; her sons, Steve (Susie) and Jim (Debbi); her beloved grandchildren, Chris (Sam), Nick, Aaron, and Kelly; her brothers, Jim (Nancy) Crampton and John (Mary) Crampton.

Kay was born on August 8, 1934, in Centerville, Iowa. She grew up in the Macalester-Groveland neighborhood of St. Paul, where she attended Central High School. She graduated from Macalester College with a degree in Elementary Education, where she also met her husband, Jerry.

Kay began her career teaching first grade in the St. Paul Public Schools. After her children were born, she devoted herself to raising her family. She later returned to education teaching at Fraser School in Richfield, where she worked with children with special needs.

Throughout her life, Kay devoted her time and energy to serving others. She was particularly passionate about social justice and improving opportunities for women and underserved communities, including the Native and African American communities. Her commitment to helping others was not simply an interest, it was a lifelong part of who she was.

Kay was an active member of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) since 1960. She served on the Scholarship Trust Committee, providing women with scholarships.

In 1966, Kay became a member of P.E.O. and remained active in the organization throughout her life. She served in many leadership roles including president, treasurer, and secretary. One of her most rewarding roles was serving 26 years as co-chair of the Continuing Education Committee, where she helped provide education Grants to women.

Kay was also a longtime leader in her church, where she and Jerry were charter members. Her faith and commitment to social justice and outreach to the community were important to her.

She cherished her family and always found ways to create special moments with each of her four grandchildren. Kay will be remembered for her devotion to her family, her love of education, her compassion for others, and her lifelong commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around her. Most of all, she will be remembered as a loving wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend who gave generously of herself and touched the lives of so many.

There will be a Celebration of Kay's Life including a visitation on Saturday, August 29th at 11:00 am followed by a service at 12:00 pm at Presbyterian Church of the Apostles, 701 E 130th St., Burnsville, MN 55337. Anyone who cannot attend in person may access the service using this link: https://zoom.us/j/87395285495

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to the Presbyterian Church of the Apostles for the “Reparations Fund”.

A special thank you to MN Hospice and the Arbors at Ridges for their loving care of Kay.