Barbara V. Johnson

In Loving Memory of Barbara Victoria Johnson (née Makanoff) 

We remember with love and profound respect, Barbara "Bobbie" Victoria Johnson, who passed away on February 19, 2024, at the age of 78. Born to Bernard and Dorothy Makanoff (née Frimmel), immigrants from Russia/Ukraine and Turkey, in West Philadelphia, Barbara's life was a remarkable journey of love, generosity, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of others.

Barbara's life was defined by her deep commitment to her family and her community. She attended John Bartram High School graduating in 1963 and after her time working in Center City she walked every day past the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. She continued her adventures by working in the medical field at Jefferson Hospital in the mid-1960’s and later at Children’s Hospital in Los Angeles in In the late 1960’s. In the 1980’s and 90’s Barbara dedicated herself to supporting children in her local community of Bensalem Pennsylvania where she poured her heart into creating nurturing environments to learn and grow at local schools Valley Elementary, childcare centers, Bensalem Township Parks & Recreation  centers and the AdventureLand summer camp. 

A pivotal moment of joy in Barbara's life was in 1976, when she and her 4-year-old son, Kevin, witnessed Queen Elizabeth II's visit to Philadelphia for America's Bicentennial. The kindness of a stranger, who offered Kevin a view from his shoulders, leading to a personal wave from the Queen, epitomized the community spirit and history Barbara valued so highly.

To further enrich her lifelong love of doodling, Barbara took art classes, embracing her creativity and love for visual expression. Her artistic journey complemented her professional path when she worked as a children's photographer at Kinderfoto at the Neshaminy Mall in the early 1990s, capturing the innocence and joy of childhood through her lens.

Barbara's pride in her family knew no bounds. She married her loving partner Steven J. Johnson in 1979 and lead a wonderful life in Bensalem. She was immensely proud of her children, Danielle A. Derk and Kevin R. Johnson, and her cherished grandchildren, Bethany Roseberry (née Hill), Richard Hill, and Emily Brady. Her love also extended to the niece and nephews of her late brother Lon Makanoff and to many others, each of whom held a special place in her heart. Barbara's life was a testament to the belief that the greatest legacy one can leave is the love and guidance given to the younger generations.

Barbara's journey from the historic streets of Philadelphia to the warm community of Bensalem was filled with acts of kindness, moments of joy, and a deep commitment to making a difference in the lives of those around her. Her spirit of generosity, her love for her family, and her dedication to the welfare of children and animals remain her enduring legacy.

Relatives and friends are invited to Funeral Services on Friday, February 23, 1:30 PM at Goldsteins’ Rosenberg’s Raphael Sacks Suburban North, 310 2^nd Street Pike, Southampton, PA 18966. Interment Roosevelt Memorial Park.

As we bid farewell to Barbara, we are invited to honor her memory by contributing to the ASPCA, reflecting her love for animals and her belief in compassion and care for all living beings. This gesture continues Barbara's legacy of support and love for those in need.