Edda Johnson

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Edda Maria Johnson, 87, of Bismarck and Desloge, who left her loved ones unexpectedly on June 4, 2026, at Parkland Health Center North in Bonne Terre. Born on January 30, 1939, in Czechoslovakia to the late Franz and Julia Schmidt, Edda's life was a profound testament to love and perseverance.

Having been born in war-torn Europe, survival became Edda’s first and most important lesson. She witnessed the horrors of World War II through the eyes of a small child, experiences that never left her and helped shape her into a strong, resilient woman.

Growing up, she diligently studied piano and voice, eventually singing on radio and stage, and even working as a singing waitress. Upon marrying, she bravely left Germany to come to the United States, where she built a life centered on family and hard work. A devoted mother of four children, Edda instilled in them a strong work ethic, an appreciation for talent and learning, and a love of family. She raised countless gardens, planted hundreds of fruit trees, and cared for chickens and cattle, always ensuring everyone was fed, even during difficult times.

Edda endured many hardships throughout her life. She helped raise generations of children and faced widowhood more than once. Yet she met every challenge with determination and grace. Despite these difficulties, the joys in her life were many. Her family shared a fulfilling life filled with music, laughter, and a passion for hard work. Edda’s musical talents continued to shine throughout her life as she contributed to her church and community, sharing her love of music and life with those around her. Edda maintained a positive and almost carefree outlook that carried her through adversity and helped her overcome life’s greatest challenges.

Edda's greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to her children, Fredi Holbert and husband Billy, Dean Frink and wife Sandy, Doug Johnson and David Johnson; cherished grandmother of Cody Holbert, Kelli Hines, Jamie Frink, Josh Frink (Jessica), Kayci Moss (Levi) and Kaitlin Smith (Chad) and Van Johnson; great-grandmother to seven. Her nurturing spirit and unwavering love left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her.

 Edda will be deeply missed but will remain forever in our hearts, her legacy living on through her beloved family and the many lives she enriched. She will be laid to rest with her husband at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery. Arrangements under the direction of C. Z. Boyer & Son Funeral Home in Desloge.