Barbara Jeanne (O’Connor) Johnson

Barbara Jeanne O’Connor Johnson, known to all as “Barb,” passed away on January 19, 2026, at the age of 73. In a testament to a life deeply shared, her beloved husband, Gregri “Greg” Johnson, passed away shortly after her.

Barb was a proud graduate of Denfeld High School, Class of 1970, in Duluth. In her early years, she worked as a secretary and administrative assistant, but her true calling lay in the written word. A voracious reader from a young age, Barb’s love of books shaped her keen intellect and fueled an intense dedication to everything she pursued. That drive led her back to college as an adult, where she earned her degree from Mankato State University in 1984.

Following graduation, Barb flourished as a freelance writer. She poured her heart, sharp mind, and unwavering commitment into the worlds of fiction, suspense, and urban fantasy, crafting stories with a unique voice and perspective.

Barb was a passionate advocate for animals. She and Greg cherished their beloved cats, who were truly members of the family. Together they shared a life of curiosity and adventure, traveling to Asia several times and exploring the world side by side.

After marrying, they made their home in Litchfield. Greg was an avid baseball fan who rarely missed a Minnesota Twins game, and in recent years Barb found herself enjoying the games just as much as he did. Whether traveling abroad, caring for their cats, or cheering on the Twins, they were happiest simply being together.

Throughout her journey from Duluth to Brainerd, the Twin Cities, and finally Litchfield, Barb remained a beloved sister, a devoted wife, and a loyal friend.

Barb was preceded in death by her parents, John and Esther O’Connor; several aunts and uncles; and her maternal and paternal grandparents.

She is survived by her nine siblings: Tim O’Connor; Bonnie O’Connor; Brian O’Connor (Meledy); Jeff O’Connor; Erin Buscher (John); Rick O’Connor; Jackie Hughes (Dave); Pete O’Connor; and Brenda O’Connor. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, cousins, and a wide community of friends and fellow writers.

Having shared more than 35 years together as life partners, Barb and Greg now embark on their next journey side by side, offering comfort and peace to those who loved them.

A joint memorial service for Barb and Greg will be held on Valentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Ostmark Lutheran Church near Litchfield.

In lieu of flowers, Barb’s family suggests memorials be directed to your local animal shelter in her honor.

“In life, they were inseparable; in peace, they remain together.”

memorial service

Memorial Service

February 14, 2026

Ostmark Lutheran Church 32721 680th Ave, Watkins, MN 55389, USA

Funeral/Cremation Provider: Crescent Tide Cremation Services