Janice Murchison Johnson

RALEIGH - Janice Murchison Johnson, affectionately known as “JJ” by her family and friends, passed away on October 23, 2025, at The Rosewood at The Cypress of Raleigh. Born on August 16, 1930, in Rocky Mount, NC, she was the youngest of three daughters of Mabel Claire Barbour and Ernest Edwin Murchison, who preceded her in death.

Janice graduated from Women’s College in Greensboro, NC (now UNC-G). After teaching middle school English in Kinston, NC, she returned to her alma mater to work. Her greatest joy during this time was meeting James “Jim” Archer Johnson on a blind date in 1955.

Janice and Jim married in 1956 and lived in Hattiesburg, MS; Selma, AL; and Knoxville, TN, as Jim pursued his career with the Southern Railway. In 1961, they settled in Alexandria, VA, where they raised their three children—Jimmy, Beth, and Bobby. Janice taught kindergarten in Fairfax County, VA for many years and was a devoted member of Downtown Baptist Church. She cherished her friendships and embraced the unique experiences of living in the nation’s capital.

In 1983, Janice and Jim moved to Roanoke, VA with Norfolk Southern Railway and quickly became active members of First Baptist Church of Roanoke. Janice served in numerous leadership roles in the women’s, children’s, and music ministries, sharing her contagious enthusiasm, gracious hospitality, and steadfast faith. They spent 25 joyful years in Roanoke, forming deep and lasting relationships. In 2008, Janice and Jim relocated to The Cypress of Raleigh to be closer to their children and grandchildren—a cherished gift to their family.

JJ will be remembered foremost for her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ. She was known for her friendliness, cheerful demeanor, quick smile, optimistic outlook, and fun-loving spirit. Gracious, hospitable, and generous, JJ thrived behind the scenes, fulfilling essential roles without seeking recognition. She delighted in welcoming guests into her home, where she was an exceptional hostess, fabulous cook, engaging conversationalist, and constant encourager. She was happiest when she had her whole family (and likely some extras) around the dining room table.

JJ loved to travel, study her Rand McNally Atlas, and plan the family’s annual beach trips to the North Carolina coast. She will be fondly remembered for her pound cakes, nibble mix, Christmas fudge, and delicious Sunday roast beef dinners. She prioritized her standing Friday hair appointments and was rarely seen without beautifully polished nails.

Her family is deeply grateful for the loving care JJ received since 2018 at the Rosewood Health Center at The Cypress of Raleigh. Words cannot fully express their appreciation for the nurses, caregivers, and staff of the “Morning Glory” wing, who provided unwavering love and support to JJ and her family over the past seven years.

Janice is survived by her children: Jimmy Johnson (Donna) of Washington, NC; Beth Beasley (Mark) of Raleigh, NC; and Bobby Johnson (Susan) of Charlotte, NC. She is also survived by her eight grandchildren—Hunter (Tim) Wynkoop, Brinkley Johnson, Cameron (Curtis) Strubinger, Johnson (Frances) Beasley, Ann Archer (Chase) Bengel, Emily Johnson, Will Beasley, and Archer Johnson—and eight great-grandchildren—Virginia, Charlie and Nellie Strubinger, Tate and James Beasley, Mac and Ellie Bengel, and Parker Wynkoop. She was predeceased by her beloved husband Jim, her parents, and her two sisters —Rebecca Arie and Sue Hayworth.

A service to celebrate Janice’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, November 15, 2025, in the Ballroom at the Clubhouse at The Cypress of Raleigh, 8801 Cypress Lakes Drive, Raleigh, NC 27615 with a reception at the conclusion of the service. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Transitions LifeCare at transitionslifecare.org/donate/ or to Refugee Hope Partners at https://refugeehopepartners.org/donate/.

Funeral arrangements by Bryan-Lee Funeral Home of Raleigh. Online condolences may be made at www.bryan-leefuneralhome.com