Shirley Johnson

Shirley Ruth Johnson, 91, of Des Moines, passed away June 22, 2026, at Accura Healthcare of South Des Moines.

She was born May 10, 1935 in Des Moines, to Gertrude and Gale Archer. Shirley was a huge music lover. She played guitar and was a country singer for The Country Knights. In her free time, Shirley enjoyed thrifting and going to garage sales. She also loved crafting

Shirley was preceded in death by her parents; first husband, Austin Conner; second husband, Paul Johnson; sons, Jerry Conner and Tom Conner; siblings, Ted, Donald, John (Bo), and Bill.

She is survived by her children, Debra Nicholson, Laura Brown, Mike Conner, Joe Conner, Andy Conner, and Denny Conner; siblings, Phyllis, Kenny Ray, and Cathy; many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family and friends.

The family will be greeting friends from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, at Hamilton’s Southtown Funeral Home; 5400 SW 9th Street, Des Moines. A memorial service will be held at 5:00 p.m. following the visitation.

Memorial contributions may be directed to the family in loving memory of Shirley.

Condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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