Celia Rose Johnson

Celia Rose Johnson, 92, of Roy, Montana, passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, at the home of her youngest child while under hospice care. Born on January 30, 1933, in Crookston, Minnesota, to Joe and Gladys Thurman, Celia was the fifth of ten children in a warm and bustling family. She was preceded in death by her parents; her beloved husband, Donald Jerome Johnson; her siblings Ardith (Marvin) LaRue, Alvin (Ellen) Thurman, Russell (Alma) Thurman, and Douglas (Helen) Thurman; and her children Barb Johnson, Rick (Jeanine) Johnson, and two stillborn children.

Celia married Donald Jerome Johnson on May 6, 1951, and together they raised a family rooted in love, faith, and hard work. Donald passed away in 2016, leaving behind a legacy of shared devotion. The couple moved from Minnesota to Cut Bank, Montana, in 1966, then to Great Falls in 1970, before settling in Roy in 1979, where Celia made her home until her passing.

Celia was a dedicated mother to her six surviving children: Karl (Linda) Johnson, Cheryl (Pat) Cox, Dona Williams, Joel Johnson, Jerome (Kathy) Johnson, and Patricia “PJ” (Shane) Klakken. She was a proud grandmother to 18 grandchildren, including four from Karl, four from Cheryl, three from Dona, four from Rick, and three from Jerome, as well as two step-grandchildren from PJ. Her home was a haven of warmth, filled with the laughter of family gatherings, shared stories, and her unwavering support for her loved ones.

She is survived by her siblings Irene (Clifford) Keeling, Joan (Robert) Brothers, Dale (Beverly) Thurman, Bob (Barb) Thurman, and Jack (Kathy) Thurman, along with numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family who cherished her kind spirit. Celia’s life was marked by resilience, generosity, and a deep commitment to her family. Whether tending to her home, sharing wisdom, or offering a listening ear, she left an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Visitation will be on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 4:00 to 7:00 pm at Cloyd Funeral Home in Lewistown. Funeral services will be on Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 11:00 am at the Roy Church, 318 4th Ave, Roy, MT, with Roy Koch officiating. Burial will follow at the Roy Cemetery. Please join the family following the service for a reception at the Roy School.

Memorial contributions can be made in Celia’s name to a charity of your choice.

Arrangements are under the direction of Cloyd Funeral Home. Condolences for the family may be posted online at www.cloydfuneralhome.com