Joyce Johnson

Joyce Lynn Hurst Johnson, 72, passed away on September 13, 2021, surrounded by her children. 

Joyce was born in Waco on February 13, 1949 to Robert Henry Hurst and Jesse Lee Childers Hurst. She married Michael Johnson on September 10, 1971 and spent the next 48 years faithfully and lovingly devoted to the family they built together. Her family extended beyond bloodlines and included many “adopted” sisters, children, and grandchildren. Her passions included reading, crocheting, movies, and painting. She loved to travel and had just returned from a trip with friends shortly before she passed. She was loud and loving, generous and fun.

Joyce worked for the City of Waco Water Department and served as the city’s Tax Assessor Collector until her retirement in 1996. She went on to spend several years working as a substitute teacher. She finally “really retired” a few years after her husband did. Together they enjoyed camping, fishing, and spending time with friends.

Joyce was preceded in death by her husband, Michael Johnson, her father, Robert Hurst, her mother, Jesse Lee Hurst, and her sister, Freda Hurst Stevens.

Joyce is survived by her son, Robert Johnson of Hewitt; daughter, Michel Matus and son-in-law, Jason Matus of Riesel; grandchildren, SSgt Dylan Johnson, Kyndall Johnson and Johnathan Butler, Mason Matus, Sage Matus, and Hope Matus; and many dear friends she considered family.