Johns, Catherine Stutzman (1879-1954)

Mennonite Weekly Review obituary: 1954 Jul 15 p. 9

Birth date: 1879 Sep 9

text of obituary:

MRS. CATHERINE JOHNS

Catherine Stutzman, second daughter of Moses J. and Barbara (Swartzendruber) Stutzman was born near Kalona, Iowa, Sept. 9, 1879 and passed from this life at the Clinton, Oklahoma hospital June 22, 1954, aged 74 years, 9 months and 13 days. Early in life she accepted Christ as her personal Saviour and became a member of the Mennonite church, which faith she treasured until the end.

On November 3, 1898 she was united in marriage to John J. Johns, who later was ordained to the ministry. He succumbed to an attack of typhoid fever August 31, 1918. After their marriage they made their home at Nappannee[sic Nappanee], Indiana until 1905 when they moved to the farm northwest of Hyrdo[sic Hydro], which has since been her home.

Two adopted children, Paul and Alta (Mrs. Wm. C. Schantz) were brought up in this home and given parental love and care and were a real source of comfort to her. Although a widow and in failing health for years, she faced life with the fortitude of one whose trust is in God. She has been a sufferer from diabetes, which, with other complications, was the cause of her death.

She was preceded in death by her husband, her parents, and three sisters, Eliza Jane (Mrs. John D. Miller), Sarah Ann, and Clara (Mrs. Lewis Zook).

She is survived by the son and daughter, three grandchildren, one brother, S. E. Stutzman, other relatives and acquaintances.

Mrs. Johns' life was one of continuous service to others. So long as she was physically able, she could always be found doing good deeds and helping those in distress or sorrow. Her wonderful service in the church and aid society will long be remembered and her unselfish devotion to her church, her family and her friends was an inspiration. A great many friends sorrow with the bereaved family.