Belva Myers Johnson

Belva Hope Myers Johnson, beloved Wife, Mother, Grandmother, Great-grandmother, Friend, Mentor and Designer passed away on June 7th at the age of 84 in New Orleans. She joins her loving husband of 63 years, John K “Spooky” Johnson, Jr. who passed away in January 2018. They shared a wonderful life together. Belva was passionate about her career which began in 1963 when she joined Kitchens By Cameron. She quickly became a pioneer for women in the Kitchen Design Business and over time a role model and mentor to many women seeking a career in the industry. She was the first female Certified Kitchen Designer in New Orleans and established the National Kitchen & Bath Association (NKBA) Chapter in New Orleans with the collaboration of Cameron Gamble, Joe Howard and Henry Simon. She served as Chapter President on multiple occasions and was honored with NKBA’s Member of the Year award. Belva designed more than 1500 kitchens, created designs for over a dozen Showcase Houses, was featured in several publications and her client list read like a Who’s Who of New Orleans. Belva was known for her Talent, Professionalism, Inspiration and Perfectly-Coiffed Hair. She loved her work and continued her designing career through 2018. In recent years, she had the immense pleasure of working with Stewart Schmidt and Emily Wright. Belva was an inspiration both professionally and personally. Belva’s (and Spooky’s) exuberant personality and inclusiveness led their home to be a safe haven for many and a place for fun. The door was always open, the drinks were always cold, and their home was filled with love and laughter. Belva loved unconditionally and received everyone’s love in return. She enjoyed traveling, reading, gardening and cooking. Belva is survived by her three children: John David Johnson (Jackie), William Matthew Johnson (Sharon), and Terrie Johnson Farrand (Michael); three grandchildren: William Johnson Jr. (Marie), Melissa Lavender (Justin), and Sean Johnson (Melissa); five great grandchildren, sister-in-law Carolyn Johnson and several nieces, nephews and cousins that were so dear to her. Additional beloved family members include Carol Krupke, Theron Powell (Thalia), Christian Powell, Paul Nelson and Sherry Sewell. Relatives and friends are invited to attend a Memorial Service held at St Mary Magdalen, 6421 W. Metairie Ave, Metairie, LA 70003 on Saturday July 14. Visitation at 11am with a Memorial Service at noon.