August 11, 1934 – March 15, 2025
OLEAN – Mercedes Johnson, 90, of Olean, passed away peacefully on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at Absolut Care of Allegany, surrounded by her loving family.
Born in Clarion, PA, on August 11, 1934, Mercedes was the daughter of the late Arthur and Ruth Glover. She grew up in the close-knit town of Mt. Jewett, where she formed lifelong friendships and cherished the values of her hometown. She graduated from Kane High School, where her passion for music flourished as she played multiple instruments and marched with the Kane High School band.
It was in Mt. Jewett that she met and married Donald Johnson, eventually settling in Olean to raise their family. She worked at the First National Bank before joining the family business, Johnson Printing Co. Even after their divorce following 25 years of marriage, Mercedes and Donald remained friends.
A dedicated businesswoman, Mercedes carried on the Johnson family legacy as the Owner and President of Craftsmen Printing Inc. until its closure in 2007. In her young adult life, she was an active member of the Eastern Star, where she served as Matron. Her love of music continued throughout her life—she played the piano and organ for various area churches, sang in church choirs, and was a proud member of the Olean Community Chorus.
Mercedes found immense joy in sewing, crafting, knitting, cooking, and hosting gatherings. However, nothing brought her more happiness than spending time with her family, especially cheering on her grandson, Josh, at his high school and college swim meets and other sporting events. This devotion extended to her great-granddaughters, Emilia and Madelyn, whom she adored beyond measure.
She is survived by her children, Karen (Timothy) Keller of Clarence, NY, and Kurt Johnson of Olean; her grandson, Joshua (Jamie) Keller of Lockport; and two great-grandchildren, Emilia and Madelyn; and several nieces and nephews. Later in life, she found love and companionship with Dudley Phillips, who predeceased her in 2016. Their relationship was filled with laughter, adventure, music, cooking, and a deep bond that enriched both of their lives. She also shared an unbreakable friendship with Dee Eade Griffith, her “partner in crime,” whose unwavering support and love endured through the years even when miles separated them.
She was also predeceased by her parents, Arthur and Ruth; twin siblings, Arthur (Emma) Glover of New Hampshire and Martha Lou (Clifford) Ohlson of Mt. Jewett, PA.
Private services will be held under the care of Guenther Funeral Home, Olean, with the Rev. Anthony Evans officiating.
Memorial contributions in Mercedes’ honor may be made to the Mt. Irenaeus Franciscan Mountain Community (www.mountainonline.org or Mt. Irenaeus, PO Box 100, West Clarksville, NY 14786) or the Alzheimer’s Association of WNY (www.alz.org).
Mercedes’ legacy of love, resilience, and kindness will forever be remembered by those who knew and loved her.
Online condolences may be expressed at guentherfh.com.
