Long-standing Skagit Valley resident Elma Johnson joined her Lord and Savior on February 20, 2024, concluding an inspiring life of love and service.

Born in Seattle on December 13th, 1925, Elma spent her childhood and life honoring the Scandinavian heritage and Christian faith of her immigrant parents, John and Hilda Selin.

After attending secretarial school in 1943, she married William E. Bounds with whom she shared four children, William, Susan, Stephen, and Johanna.

In 1955, Elma moved from California to Skagit Valley to provide a strong and safe anchor for her children's future.

In 1965, Elma married the love of her life, John M. Johnson, merging his four sons, Duane, Gary, Mark, and Paul, with her family.

Together, Elma and John became world travelers and enjoyed hosting friends and family at their home on Big Lake.

Elma's 25-year career as an orthodontic assistant introduced her to many families; her 50-year volunteer position as founder and coordinator of the Skagit Valley Blood Bank further expanded her wide-spread standing.

However, it was her reputation as "The Pie Lady" that garnered her highest accolades and legendary status in the community.  Ten years of auctioning off her famous wild blackberry pie raised close to $150,000 for the Hospice Foundation.

Family and friends, who loved and knew Elma best, give her a standing ovation for her humility, faith, and wisdom.  She was an amazing mother, grandmother, aunt and friend.  Praise God for the life of Elma E. Johnson!

A celebration of Elma's life is scheduled for Saturday, April 13th, at 1 P.M. at Bethany Covenant Church, 1318 S. 18th Street, Mount Vernon, WA.

Special thanks to Hawthorne Funeral Home, Mountain Glen Retirement Community, and to Hospice of the Northwest.

In lieu of flowers donations can be made to Hospice of the Northwest.

Please visit www.hawthornefh.com to share your thoughts and memories and sign the online guest register.