Sara Jane Simpson Johnson, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and educator, passed away on December 4, 2024, in Fort Mill, South Carolina, at the age of 77. Born on June 2, 1947, in Lancaster, South Carolina, to Saralie Bennett Simpson and Pratt Simpson, Sara Jane lived a life filled with love, learning, and service to others.
A proud graduate of Winthrop College, she earned a bachelor’s degree in education in 1971 and a master’s degree in education in 1975. Sara Jane devoted her career to shaping young minds as an English teacher at Barr Street Junior High School in Lancaster, where she later served as a compassionate guidance counselor. Her dedication to her students left a lasting impact on thousands over the years.
Sara Jane was a devoted member of Reformation Lutheran Church in Lancaster before joining Grace Lutheran Church in Rock Hill in the 1990s, eventually moving to Rock Hill in 2017. At Grace, she served multiple terms in leadership, embodying her deep faith and commitment to her church community.
Sara Jane treasured her family above all. She is survived by her loving husband of 56 years, Steve Johnson; her children Carrie (Drew) Felty and Michael (Amanda) Johnson; and her adored grandchildren, Rowan and Liam Felty, and Coby, Connor, and Cole Johnson. She is also survived by her brother, Al (Sherrie) Simpson; sister-in-law, Kathy Johnson Louvaris; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Known affectionately as “Nunnie,” a nickname bestowed by her younger brother and embraced by nieces, nephews, and grandchildren, Sara Jane’s warmth, humor, and wisdom endeared her to all who knew her. Her words of advice, such as “Build a bridge, then get over it,” remain as enduring reminders of her strength and practicality.
Her legacy lives on through the countless lives she touched as a teacher, counselor, mentor, and friend. Sara Jane will be remembered for her kindness, sass, and the indelible mark she left on the world.
A celebration of Sara Jane’s life will be held at 11am Saturday December 14, 2024 at Grace Lutheran Church, 426 Oakland Avenue Rock Hill. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Grace Lutheran Church Campus Ministries.