Melissa Johnson

Melissa “Gigi” Johnson, 71, of Rhome, Texas, passed away peacefully at home on January 30, 2026, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.

Born on December 26, 1955, in Lake Forest, Illinois, Melissa was the daughter of Mary Louise Martin Emma and Joseph Conrad Emma II.

Her journey took her from Lake Forest, Illinois, to TCU in Fort Worth, and later into a long teaching career in Azle ISD and Keller ISD. In retirement, she and Curtis settled in Rhome, where she stayed closely connected to her retired teacher friends and her Lake Cities Church of Christ family. She could always be found in “her spot”—second row, second chair in — on Sunday mornings, and spending her weekdays at Bible studies, lunches, shopping trips, and laughter with her beloved “Fab 5 plus One” girls. She truly loved her people, and they loved her just as deeply.

Melissa’s proudest accomplishment was being a mother to Joseph Riley. She spent many years as a single mom, working tirelessly to provide for him. On November 10, 1997, she married Curtis Johnson, the love of her life, and together they built a beautiful life. Known as “Missy” growing up and “Melissa” in later years, her favorite title was “Gigi.” She adored her grandchildren, especially little Logan, Joe and Kat’s son.

After her first cancer diagnosis eight years ago, Melissa chose to live. She became a certified storm spotter for the National Weather service, traveled to Colorado for both of her granddaughters’ weddings, returned to Lake Forest for her 50th high school reunion, made countless trips to San Antonio to be with Joe and his family, and proudly watched her grandson Andrew perform with his school's percussion ensemble.

Above all, Melissa loved Jesus with her whole heart. In her final days, she told her "bonus" daughter and her sisterhood that she hoped people would remember her faith most of all. She wasn’t perfect—none of us are—but she lived as a woman saved by grace and anchored in hope.

Melissa was preceded in death by her parents. She is survived by her husband, Curtis Johnson; her son, Joseph Riley and wife Kat; her bonus children, Gunnar Johnson and wife Missy, and Susan Young and husband Jeff; her treasured grandchildren, Faith (Jordan), Katelyn (Joey), Elijah, Andrew, and Logan; and her great-granddaughter, Charlie Kate. She is also survived by her sister, Nancy Emma Miller (Brion), her brother, William Joseph Emma, and many cousins across the country.

A Celebration of Life will be held on

Saturday, February 21st at 10:00 am

Lake Cities Church of Christ

280 Indian Creek Dr, Trophy Club, TX 76262

The family extends heartfelt thanks to the Lake Cities Church of Christ community and her “Fab 5 plus One” friends for their meals, prayers, and steadfast companionship. Your faithful presence brought comfort throughout Melissa’s final months.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Melissa’s honor to the American Cancer Society or to Cook Children’s Hospital in Fort Worth, Texas.

Hawkins Funeral Home Bridgeport

940-683-2211

www.hawkinsfuneralhome.com