How do you honor a remarkable life in just a few paragraphs and memories? Though words cannot fully capture the depth of Kathy's impact, we hope to offer a glimpse of her extraordinary spirit. To us, Kathy was a truly phenomenal person, a blessing to all who knew her. The world was brighter with her presence, and it feels a little dimmer in her absence.

Kathy Rae Johnson was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, to Rayford Arthur Johnson and Ann Katherine Larsen on December 3rd, 1956. Two weeks before her birth, her father tragically passed away in a trucking accident. Later, her mother married Joral Page Lerwill, who adopted Kathy and raised her as his daughter, making her Kathy Rae Lerwill.

Kathy’s childhood home was lively and full of children, including her 12 siblings and numerous foster children she loved deeply. If you knew Kathy, you would have seen her holding the babies all the time. Family meant everything to her, and she prioritized staying connected to her siblings. She is remembered as thoughtful, kind, loving, and attentive, cherishing her relationships with each of them.

On July 10, 1976, Kathy married her high school sweetheart and eternal soulmate, George Stephen Fengel. Together, they built a family that became Kathy’s world: Joshua Stephen, Megan Kristine, Seth Everette, Kami Rae, Emily Katherine, Shelby Paige, and Brittany Ann. Over the years, Kathy devoted herself to loving and protecting her children. As her family grew, she welcomed 16 grandchildren (with another on the way) and 2 great-grandchildren. Their names are: Jetsen Everett, Jericho Michael, Tyler Joseph, Kylie Kristine, Matthew Stephen, Bryce Michael, Sadie Rae, Dylan Chase, Devin Gabriel, Duston Bradley, Dallin Everette, Theodore Stephen, Seth Garrett, Gideon Lincoln, Trevan Wade, Walker Raymond, Dorothy Rae-Jean, and Maverick Everette. Her love and fierce advocacy, especially for her son Seth, were unwavering. Thanks to her dedication, Seth lived a full twenty-seven years, defying all odds. He blessed the world with his presence, and we are all better for it. We find comfort knowing that Kathy is reunited with him now (and a little sad we are not). Their legacy continues to inspire our family.

Kathy’s greatest accomplishment was her kids. She loved talking about their lives, achievements, and families. She was their biggest cheerleader and was so proud of each of them. Her most notable milestones were marrying our father, building a life filled with love and joy, growing her family, and dedicating herself to service. Anyone who knows Kathy knows love. She loved with all her soul and gave freely to everyone. She over-tipped, gave cash to those in need, offered clothes and gifts at Christmas, wrote handwritten cards, crafted homemade gifts, prayed for you, added your name in the temple (or multiple temples at once), served in her callings at church fully, called and checked in all the time, visited people when she could, and so much more. If she could brighten someone’s day, she would—no matter the cost or the time it took. She was always about spreading light and joy.

Kathy was one of the most talented individuals we knew. Her creativity and love of all things crafty showed in the gifts she gave to those she loved. From her handmade scrapbooks to her Christmas ornaments to her Zentangle to her tole painting, she made personalized gifts for so many over the years.

Kathy passed away peacefully in her home on March 21, 2026, held by her best friend and eternal companion. She was 69. Kathy fought bravely for so long, but her body and soul were ready for the next part of her journey.

Kathy will be honored and remembered for the love she gave so freely, her kindness, thoughtfulness, and special spirit. There is a hole in our hearts, an emptiness that overwhelms us, and a sadness that feels unending. Though heartbroken, we know families can be together forever. We know we will see Kathy again. We know she is enjoying her reunion with those who have passed before her. We know she will be cheering us on and waiting to be reunited with all her posterity. Her light will shine through us because of her legacy. She will forever be etched in our hearts and fondly missed.

A funeral will be held to celebrate the life she lived and to honor her mark on the world.
Details:

Friday, April 10. 2026

10:00 am Funeral Service
Church Building
2400 Cordova Lane, Rancho
Cordova, CA 95670

11:30 am Cemetery Ceremony
Camellia Memorial Lawn
10221 Jackson Rd
Sacramento, CA 95827

12:30 pm Luncheon
Church Building
2400 Cordova Lane, 
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670