Patricia Ann Mathews Johnson

Patricia "Puggie" Ann Mathews Johnson, 86, passed peacefully on the 28th of May, 2025. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband John Johnson, parents Peter F. Mathews and Mary E. Ryan Mathews, brothers, Peter Richardson "P.R"., John, James, Thomas "Tommy" Mathews, sisters, Marian Morriz, Margaret Elise "Marlise" Lewis, and Rosemary DeBroy.
Patricia was born in New Orleans on October 14, 1938, the youngest of eight children. Patricia's life was a radiant reflection of her deep Catholic faith, love for family, and devotion to others.
After graduating from Dominican High School in New Orleans, Patricia attended business school. She worked as an executive assistant at Bank of New Orleans. She went on a blind date with John Johnson at a bank Christmas party. The date was orchestrated by her dear friend and colleague at the bank, along with her friend's husband, who was John's supervisor. John was an Air Route Traffic Controller and recently transferred from El Paso to New Orleans Lakefront Airport Center.
Their first date sparked a connection, but it was their second date at a fancy lakefront restaurant that revealed Patricia's frugal spirit. Noting the high prices on the menu, she asked John if he really wanted to eat at this establishment-a moment that endeared her to John as a woman of sincerity, wisdom, and trust.
On a later date at Pontchartrain Beach, Patricia's spirited nature shone through when she boldly accepted John's challenge to ride the Zephyr roller coaster. Much to John's surprise, she called his bluff with her characteristic courage and charm. Their love blossomed, and on February 6, 1960 Patricia and John were married; a marriage that lasted till John's death on January 5, 2022.
The family moved to Houston in June 1965 where Patricia was a loving homemaker to her husband and son. She dedicated her life to warmth, welcome, and a devoted Catholic faith. Patricia's generosity and love meant that she was always caring for others by putting the needs of family, friends, and neighbors before her own.
Her passion for gardening brought beauty to her surroundings, nurturing both her flowers and the spirits of those around her. Patricia had many close friends with whom she shared daily walks and tea. She picked up her grandchildren from school throughout their childhood, and always had a "surprise of the day." She tended the gardens at St. John Neumann Catholic Church for many years. John and Patricia moved back to Metairie a month before Katrina to care for her oldest sister.
Patricia prayed fervently and daily. She had an abiding devotion to her friends in the Wednesday Morning Prayer group at St. Angela Merici Catholic Church. She lived as she prayed with unwavering commitment and love. Returning to Metairie allowed Patricia the opportunity to rekindle many close relationships with her classmates from Dominican High School.
Patricia's love, faith, and vibrant spirit will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and in the Houston, Metairie, and New Orleans communities she cherished so deeply.
She is survived by her son, Richard Johnson and wife Anita; grandsons Ryan and wife Valerie, Casey and wife Vanessa, and Sean Patrick Johnson. She is also survived by her great-grandsons, Canon, Henry, Theodore, Louis, and George Johnson, and numerous beloved nieces and nephews.
The family wishes to thank Clearwater at the Heights residents and staff, especially Lifestyles, Therapy, Med Tech, and the Care Team Partners, who made the last year of Patricia's life a special joy. Also, thanks to Genus Patris Hospice, her nurse Irene, and CNA Shara.
Recitation of the Holy Rosary will be held at 9:30 am Wednesday, July 2, at St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 1801 Sage Road in Houston.
A Requiem Mass will be offered immediately following at 10:00 am with a reception to follow.
For those who cannot attend in person, may view a livestream video of the Funeral Mass here
https://youtube.com/live/qtxZWafZNRY?feature=share.
Interment will follow at 2:00 pm at Houston National Cemetery, 10410 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, Texas.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions in memory of Patricia Johnson to be directed to the
https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/cc4a3b84-66b0-439c-812f-0cff8143c249