WILMINGTON — With deep sadness, we announce the passing of Myrtle Reasons Johnson, loving mother and wife and dedicated educator.
Myrtle was born at home on the family farm in Saratoga, N.C. on December 21, 1938, to David R. and Lula W. Reasons. Myrtle peacefully passed away at her home in Wilmington, N.C. on July 14, 2025, at the age of 86.
She was preceded in death by her husband of 36 years, Ralph L. Johnson, her brother William “Bill” Reasons, and beloved sister-in-law June Reasons. We must also mention that she was preceded in death by her cherished pup of 14 years, Puggles. Myrtle is survived by her daughter, Shannon L. West (Chris), grandson Davis West, granddaughter Mairin West, and many nieces, nephews and great-nieces and nephews.
Eager to leave life on the farm, when Myrtle graduated from Saratoga Central School in 1957, she enthusiastically departed to attend the former Atlantic Christian College, now Barton College, in Wilson, N.C. to pursue her bachelor’s degree in English and History. She then went on to obtain her master’s in education from East Carolina University in Greenville, N.C. Myrtle’s teaching career began at her alma mater, Saratoga Central School, and ended at John T. Hoggard Highschool in Wilmington, N.C. During her 30 years of teaching, she adored her students, developed long-term friendships and even kept in touch with several former students throughout her later years. Well known by her immediate family for her quiet defiance, Myrtle and her co-worker were the first female teachers in Wake County Public Schools to wear pantsuits to work, going against dress-code policy at that time. A life-long advocate for women’s rights, this was a moment of which she was particularly proud.
During “retirement”, she went on to have a second career as a paralegal and enjoyed her lifelong passion for flower gardening and her voracious appetite for reading. The highlight of Myrtle’s last decades were her grandchildren, Davis and Mairin. Although her time with them was shorter than anticipated, they have sweet memories of story-time, trains, Barbies and teatime with Grandma.
Perhaps Myrtle’s nephew, Brian Brostrom, said it best. “Auntie taught us so much by how she lived: Education is important, and knowledge enriches our lives. Remember and honor your roots, but don’t hold on to them too tightly. It’s ok to stretch your wings and broaden your horizons. Love your family and treat people well. And last but not least, ‘a good tomato is one of life’s little pleasures.’”
Myrtle is remembered with love and deeply missed by many.
