Brenda Kay Johnson

Brenda Smith Johnson, age 80, passed away on April 7, 2025. Brenda was born in Hope Mills, NC to Basil and Lena Dew Smith on February 21, 1945. Brenda married Harold Johnson on April 4, 2004, in St. Augustine, Florida.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Basil and Lena Smith; spouse, Harold Johnson; and sister, Judith Riley.

Brenda was a loving mother and wife. She was famous for her love of music, home cooking, and being the neighborhood mom. She was a born again Christian and an active member of her church choir. Professionally, she had successful tenures at Fayetteville Technical Institute and the Cumberland County Health Department. However, she often bragged that her greatest success story was her sons.

She is survived by her brother, Stuart Smith and his wife Betty; sons, Jesse L. Autry and wife, Maria, Mark Autry and wife, Paula; grandchildren, Jesse D. Autry, Rachel A. Cromer and husband, Casey, Daniel Autry, David Autry and wife, Rachel; great granddaughter, Emmajean Autry; and two nieces, Kimberly and Tina.

A visitation will be held on Thursday, April 24th from 5:30 pm until 6:30 pm at RockFish Church, 9949 Fayetteville Rd., Raeford, NC 28376.

Services will be held at RockFish Church immediately following the visitation. Pastor Tony McVickers and Pastor Jay Barr will officiate.

Private Graveside services will be held at Sandhills State Veterans Cemetery at a later date.