Deborah Johnson, of New Braunfels, Texas passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her family on April 28, 2026. She is no longer in pain and now dances joyfully with the Lord and her parents Abel and Naomi Ortega, as well as her daughter Lisa, her sister Ruth, and nephew Jeremiah.

Deborah is survived by her husband of 61 years, Gerald Johnson, and her daughter and son in law, Dawn and Don Simmons. Deborah's life was filled with love from several generations which included her grandchildren: Joshua, Tarah, Courtney from her daughter Lisa and Brendan, Bryce, Brandt, and Brianne from her daughter Dawn. Her great grandchildren include Cannon, Quinton, Gemma and Sophia due in 3 weeks.

Deborah was an English teacher for many years, teaching all levels from grade school to college. She enjoyed seeing that "spark" in the eyes of her students when they finally understood. She said, "you knew the moment they got it, when you saw it in their eyes." While she loved teaching, her passion was the Lord and sharing His love and salvation with everyone she could whether at Hobby Lobby, her doctor's office or wherever she went. She loved to talk about Jesus and share everything about Him and all He does for each of us. She loved her church and her pastor. She spent hours preparing materials for their jail ministry, wanting no one to be overlooked or forgotten. Deborah was a powerful prayer warrior and used her Intercessory skills for hundreds of people over the years. She loved worship and could spend hours worshipping the Lord. Deborah mentored many women and "spiritual daughters," teaching them to grow in their relationship with the Lord and use the Bible as their sword. She utilized her teaching skills in her ministry work and continued to minister in her very last hours. She faithfully shared all the Lord taught her in her final journey here on earth. Deborah walked with the Lord daily and those around her knew it. She is and will continue to be greatly missed here, but for those who knew her, we know she is where she belongs and where she longed to be when He called, with her Savior.

Services will be held at Fort Sam Houston National Cemetery on May 28th at 11 am, Shelter One. Flowers can be sent to Sunset Memorial Oaks Funeral Home at 415 S. Business 35, New Braunfels, Tx or donations may be made to Wounded Warrior Project by calling 855-448-3997.