Ida Jean Johnson

“TO KNOW HER WAS TO BE LOVED BY HER”

IDA JEAN JOHNSON, affectionately known as Ida or Ida Jean, was born on November 27, 1953 in Louisville, Kentucky to the late Coella Howard (Ralston) and William Howard. She peacefully transitioned from this life on June 18, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana, surrounded by the love of her family.

Ida grew up in Indianapolis, where she spent the majority of her life building a foundation rooted in love, strength, and unwavering devotion to those she held dear. She was united in marriage to Fulton Joseph, and together they shared five years of partnership and commitment.

For 18 years, Ida served as a school bus driver for Indianapolis Public Schools, safely guiding and caring for countless students until her well-deserved retirement in 2003. Her work ethic, reliability, and warm demeanor earned her the respect and admiration of both colleagues and community members.

Ida will be remembered for her strength, sense of humor, loyalty, and deeply rooted love for family. Whether she was playing cards, fishing, dancing, or sharing laughs with her grandchildren, she made every moment feel special. She had a remarkable ability to show up for others, especially in their time of need, and her kindness left a lasting imprint on all who knew her.

A proud and dedicated mother, Ida leaves behind a legacy through her beloved children: Latoya Johnson, Kendra Johnson, and Stephen J. Johnson. She was preceded in death by her son, Stephen Johnson Jr. Her heart expanded even more with the joy of her grandchildren: Kaliyah Johnson, Kenisha Johnson, Kordell Johnson, Lucas Johnson, and Jade Johnson, each of whom brought light and laughter into her life.

She was preceded in death by her siblings: Kenneth Howard, Lee Howard, Sheleasa Howard, Mae Howard, and James Howard. She is lovingly survived by her siblings: Martha Oatts (Howard), Billy Howard, Maurice Howard, and Lancer Howard, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Ida professed her faith in Christ and became a faithful member of the Church of Christ, carrying her belief with quiet strength throughout her life.

Her memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who were blessed to walk alongside her.