Deborah Carol Bushman Johnson - Walker Funeral Home

With full hearts and deep gratitude for a life beautifully lived, the family of Deborah Carol Bushman Johnson announces her passing on May 27, 2026. Deborah was born on May 10, 1956, in Provo, Utah, to Preston Wilbur and Carol Eagar Bushman, and spent her childhood and much of her life in the communities of Provo and Spanish Fork that she loved so dearly.

Deborah married her sweetheart, Gary Lynn Johnson, on December 27, 1978, in the Manti Utah Temple, beginning a partnership marked by devotion, faith, and quiet strength. Together they built a family rooted in love, learning, and service.

A proud graduate of Provo High School, Deborah continued her education at Dixie College before earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Brigham Young University. She later completed additional teaching endorsements from various institutions, always seeking to grow, improve, and better serve the children she taught.

Deborah’s teaching career was a lifelong calling. She began by teaching 3rd grade in Nephi, Utah, later opened her own in home preschool where countless children felt safe, loved, and encouraged. She eventually joined Nebo School District, where she taught 1st grade until her retirement. Her students—many now grown—remember her as patient, creative, and endlessly nurturing.

Her hands were rarely still. Deborah found joy in quilting, sewing, crafting, gardening, and tending to her flowers. She loved camping, shopping for her children and grandchildren, and truly anything that involved her grandkids, who were the light of her life.

A devoted member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, Deborah served faithfully in many callings, including in the Young Women organization and the Relief Society Presidency. Her faith was steady, sincere, and reflected in the way she lived—quiet acts of kindness, thoughtful service, and a heart always turned toward others.

Deborah is survived by her loving husband, Gary; her daughters Alyse (Jeremy) James, Brenda (Mike) Locke, and Michelle (Cameron) Hardman; and her cherished grandchildren: Nicole James, Wesley James, Millie James, McKinlie Hardman, Macie Hardman, Kane Locke, and Jaxson Locke. She is also survived by her brothers Jerry (Janet) Bushman, David (LaVerne) Bushman, and Don (Debbie) Bushman.

She is preceded in death by her Parents; her brother Norman (Carol) Bushman; her sister Sherie (RB) Bolin; and her granddaughter Elizabeth James.

Deborah’s family expresses heartfelt appreciation to the compassionate caregivers at IHC Hospital, Meadow Peak Rehabilitation, and True North Hospice for their exceptional service and kindness.

A visitation in Deborah’s honor will be held on Sunday, May 31, 2026, from 6:00–8:00 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, located at 187 South Main Street, Spanish Fork, Utah. A second visitation will take place on Monday, June 1, 2026, from 9:45–10:45 a.m. at the LDS Church building located at 1486 East 130 North, Spanish Fork, Utah. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the same location. Interment will take place at the Spanish Fork City Cemetery.

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8 Condolences for Deborah Carol Bushman Johnson

Condolences(8)

Jeannine Lindberg says

May 30, 2026 at 3:32 am

I’m so sorry for your loss. I didn’t know she had been sick. We had talked a few times since Sherries passing. I’m saddened to hear about Debbie. As her cousin, I have tons of memories. Wouldn’t know where to start. May God be with her family at this time.

Kandace Hamilton says

May 30, 2026 at 3:37 pm

Our condolences to the family. Mrs Johnson was a wonderful, caring, impactful teacher for a couple of our kids. Thank you for sharing your Mom with so many other children. She was one of the best.❤️

Sandra Jarvis says

May 31, 2026 at 4:03 pm

Debbie was an amazing dedicated teacher and friend. I feel honored that I got to work with her. I’m so sad that I am out of town and not able to attend the service. Love and prayers to all of you!❤️

Sandra Jarvis says

May 31, 2026 at 4:04 pm

Ron and Sue Johnson says

May 31, 2026 at 7:46 pm

Our sincere heartfelt condolences for your loss. Our love and prayers go out to your family.

Kristyn Moss says

June 1, 2026 at 2:36 pm

Debbie was a wonderful example to me of being a great wife, mom and grandma. She loved her family deeply. She was very talented, and I loved seeing all the things she made. I loved our visits. Our love and prayers to Gary & family.

Jennifer Atwood says

June 1, 2026 at 4:14 pm

Debbie was a good aunt to me and to Tylor and we will miss her but I know will meet again in heaven as a family.

Shelley Beck says

June 2, 2026 at 7:38 pm

I’ so sad to hear this. Such a sweet lady and a wonderful teacher

Deborah Carol Bushman Johnson May 10, 1956 - May 27, 2026

8 Condolences for Deborah Carol Bushman Johnson