Maybelle "Babe" Johnson

On January 25, 2020, Maybelle “Babe” Mary Lear Johnson passed away, allowing her to reunite with her loving husband, Jim. She had reached her last goals of reaching her 75 years, enjoying Christmas with her family, and passing away surrounded by the love of her children. Her beautiful spirit is now free of the pain she had to endure and is embraced by the loving arms of Jesus Christ. Babe was born on December 22, 1944, the second oldest child of Phyllis Wing and Donald Lear. She carried on the family name of Maybelle Mary, but when she was born, the doctor exclaimed, “You have a fine babe here,” and she carried the name her entire life. Babe grew up in Richie, Brady, Choteau, and Great Falls, enjoying dancing, being with her friends, and helping care for her siblings, Duane, Robin, Shelley, and Layne. She thoroughly enjoyed spending time with horses and loved riding the beautiful animals she considered friends. Babe’s favorite place was the ranch, and she felt the happiest there. Deciding to spread her wings into the adult world, Babe moved to Great Falls. Working as an A & W Restaurant Carhop, she met her soulmate and love of her life, James Johnson, marrying after a three-month courtship. The couple set about starting a family, and nine months later, their son Russell was born. Wanting to complete their family, they brought their daughter, Sandi, into the world in 1970. Babe remained busy as a mother and housewife, and she also started her own daycare, raising many children with love. Many locals can remember the love and care they received from her hands. Babe enjoyed her free time reading many books on various subjects, bowling with her friends, crocheting blankets for any newborns she knew about, and collecting any art with horses (her first love). She also loved spending her time with her family and ensured that her home was a welcoming place for all their friends and family. As time went on, Babe happily assumed her new role as Grandma/Grandma Dude to three wonderful boys, first Brodie, then Brady, and lastly Rhys, who she watched many movies with. She enjoyed spending her time helping to raise the boys, sharing her words of wisdom and unconditional love. Grandma was also cool enough to drive around with them, playing Pokémon! During the last years of her life, she became ill with lung cancer, and after a valiant fight against it, she felt it was time to shed her mortal coil and reunite with her loving husband. Now, the two are finally in spirit. Babe will leave her legacy of love and friendship with her son, Russ (Valerie) and their son, Rhys; her daughter, Sandi, and her sons, Brodie (Melissa) and Brady. She also leaves behind her sisters, Robin (Gary) Martin and Shelley (Terry) Swart; brother, Layne; sister-in-law, Sharon Lear; numerous nieces; nephews; and wonderful friends, who considered her family. She was preceded in death by her brother, Duane and her husband, Jim. Babe had a deep love for Jesus and felt great comfort from the Bible. Her children believe this quote is something she would have shared with you all – May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit. Be one strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them or the LORD your God goes with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. At her request, no services will be held. In her memory, whenever you see that wild horse running on the plains, think of her, and we hope that brings comfort and love to you.