Kay Smith Johnson

Kay Smith Johnson passed away peacefully on November 9, 2025, at the age of 87, surrounded by “her girls” — Turi, Makaylen, and Kenna.

Kay was born on March 4, 1938, and grew up in Chicago, a city she loved her entire life. One of her fondest teenage memories was working at the Commodore Theater, where she sold candy, her sister Joy took tickets, and their father ran the projector. Those evenings spent together became cherished memories she carried throughout her life.

Kay adored her father and spoke of him often, even in her final months.

She married Lynn Johnson, and together they shared 53 years. They built a loving home and raised six children: Erik (Beth) Johnson, Kurt (Joanna) Johnson, Chris (Melissa) Johnson, Karl Johnson (deceased), Turi (Mike) Perry, and Peter Johnson.

In her early years, Kay worked as a physical education teacher — a role she took great pride in and remembered with joy throughout her life. Later, for more than 20 years, she managed the Shopping Service at ZCMI, where she took great pride in her work and treasured the friendships she built there.

Kay was a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who found her greatest joy in her family. She is survived by her 13 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and her younger sister, Joy, who shared her same birthday — a bond they celebrated every year. She was also a “bonus grandma” to many who were fortunate enough to know her and feel her love.

She was known for her lifelong love of cats, and over the years her home was filled with their companionship, warmth, and personality. Kay loved cheering on the Utah Jazz, reading a good book, and never turned down a bowl of ice cream. Her gentle humor, warmth, and kindness endeared her to everyone she met.

She loved the color yellow — especially daffodils — and found happiness in life’s simple moments. Her sense of adventure remained strong throughout her life, taking her on memorable trips to Norway, Sweden, Holland, and an Alaskan cruise.

Kay will be remembered for her loving heart, her laughter, and the light she brought into every room. Her family takes comfort in knowing she is reunited with Lynn and their son Karl.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 12:00 Noon Memorial Mountain View Mortuary, 3115 East 7800 South (Bengal Blvd), Cottonwood Heights, Utah 84121. A viewing will precede the services from 10:00 – 11:45 am.