News Summary
Romanza LaMoyne Oliphant Johnson, a dedicated community advocate, passed away at 85. Her contributions to education and numerous local organizations will inspire future generations. Known for her perseverance and commitment, Johnson’s legacy includes founding several vital community organizations and earning numerous accolades for her volunteer work.
Bowling Green
Romanza LaMoyne Oliphant Johnson, a prominent community advocate, passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 85. Johnson, who was born on December 1, 1939, in Scottsville, made significant contributions to the local community throughout her life, leaving behind a legacy that will inspire future generations.
Education and Career
Johnson held a Bachelor of Science degree from Western Kentucky University (WKU), which she earned in 1960, and a Master’s degree from the same institution, completed in 1968. As a dedicated teacher and home economist, she had a meaningful career at Bowling Green Municipal Utilities, where she fostered educational opportunities for many young minds. Her commitment to education extended beyond her professional life, as she also taught Home Economics at Scottsville High School and WKU.
Community Contributions
Recognized for her tireless efforts, Johnson played a critical role in founding several key community organizations, including the Houchens Center for Women, Hospice of Southern Kentucky, and the Rape Crisis Center. Throughout her life, she actively participated in 27 community service organizations, such as the Dream Factory of Bowling Green and Kids on the Block, showcasing her dedication to various causes including the Salvation Army and the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life.
Acknowledgments and Awards
In recognition of her exceptional volunteer work, Johnson was awarded the WKU Distinguished Medal of Community and Public Service in 2023. Her contributions to the Salvation Army’s Center of Hope shelter construction earned her accolades at the “Champions of Hope” luncheon held by the organization, where she was recognized for her leadership in the Angel Tree Program. Additionally, Johnson was the inaugural recipient of the ATHENA Award from the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce, an honor that highlights her outstanding leadership and commitment to community service.
Romanza Johnson Park
In conjunction with her husband, Ralph, Johnson donated 2.62 acres of property along Trammel Fork Creek, which has since been developed into a nature park known as Romanza Johnson Park. This park serves as a local haven for outdoor activities such as canoeing and kayaking, further enhancing the recreational options available to Bowling Green residents.
Community Impact
Local leaders have expressed their admiration for Johnson’s lifelong commitment to public service, noting that she significantly shaped the community’s ethos toward volunteerism and philanthropy. Her mother’s civic-minded values instilled in her a strong sense of responsibility and the importance of giving back, a principle that guided Johnson throughout her life.
Lasting Legacy
Johnson’s contributions have left a lasting mark on the Bowling Green community, and local officials believe her legacy will inspire future generations to engage in community service and strive for improvements within their neighborhoods. Her unwavering dedication to public service and education exemplified the spirit of volunteerism, and her impact will be felt for years to come.
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Additional Resources
- WNKY: Remembering a Bowling Green Community Service Icon
- BG Daily News: Romanza Johnson’s Contributions
- WBKO: Community Leaders Recognized
- WNKY: Community Service Advocate Passes Away
- Sentinel Tribune: Hometown Heroes Banner Project
- Wikipedia: Bowling Green, Kentucky
- Google Search: Community service Bowling Green
- Google Scholar: Romanza Johnson
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Service
- Google News: Bowling Green community service
