Yolanda Maria Johnson

Yolanda Maria Thomas-Johnson, born to Emma Jean Wooten-Thomas-Gardner and Merle Louis Gardner Sr. on August 1, 1959, in Kansas City, Kansas and was a remarkable soul who touched the lives of many, leaving nothing but smiles on their faces. Yolanda was the beloved sister of seven siblings. John L. Thomas who proceeded her in death. Three Sisters Regina Thierry of Raytown, MO, Bonnie Lewis along with her bonus brother -n-law John Lewis of Lee’s Summit, Mo, Sherry J. Thomas of KCMO. Three Brothers Lynn A. Thomas of KCMO, Cedric X. Thomas of Pearland, TX and Merle L. Gardner Jr. of Lawerence, KS. Along with a host of nieces, nephews and other Relatives and Friend’s. Yolanda’s journey began at Graceland Elementary School kindergarten through Seventh grade and continued her High School years 8th grade through Senior year at Manual High School.  

Yolanda was known for her dancing in talent shows and house parties as well. Her dedication for dance and music shone
through, leaving a lasting impression on all who witnessed her grace and skillset.
Yolanda found love in her marriage to Otis T, Johnson Sr, hailing from Marshall TX. They married in Texas in 1987. Together, they built a life filled with cherished memories in Kansas City, Mo.

Yolanda’s Legacy lives on through her three children Maria A. Johnson, Otis T. Johnson Jr. and Cameron L. Johnson, and continued to pass on to her 5 grandchildren as well Carmella Lasley, Calayah Lasley, Ca’Tanna Lasley, Ra’Miah Phillips and Lennox Johnson, each carrying a piece of her spirit. They are a testament to her unwavering love, compassion and devotion as a Mother and
Grandmother. Throughout Yolanda’s career she worked at Mutual Benefit Life Insurance turned Fortis Benefits, a preschool teacher and years later a machine operator where she retired from. Her commitment and work ethic was unparallel, a true testament to her character. In Yolanda’s down-time and retirement, Yolanda embraced her skill set of cooking, baking helping her children and
Grandchildren, singing dancing and watching some of her favorite old television shows such as Perry Mason, Many different Westerns, Monk and Quantum Leap.

Yolanda’s journey ended with us on December 18 , 2023, but she will remain in the hearts of Family and Friend’s Forever. Yolanda’s love, grace, caring, dedication and compassion will continue in our hearts, and Souls. She shall
dwell in the house of the Lord Forever, Amen!

“MAY YOU REST PEACEFULLY”
YOLANDA!

Funeral Services will be held on Thursday  January 11, 2024 at 3 P.M. at Golden Gate Funeral & Cremation Services, LLC located at 2800 East 18th st. KCMO 64127.