Mother of two battled cancer but never lost her love for life and caring for others
Dominique Johnson was often described by those who knew her as a woman of few words — not because she lacked anything to say, but because she let her actions reveal the depth of her character.
She consistently went above and beyond for the people in her life, and family and friends said that to be connected with her was to have a steadfast ally who stood by you, no matter what.
“She was truly a blessing to those around her and in her life,” said her mother, Pat Johnson. “She was always very quiet but had the sweetest personality and she really cared about people.”
Dominique Johnson, who had worked for the Internal Revenue Service for 15 years, died on Jan. 30 at the age of 40 after an ongoing battle with cervical cancer. Diagnosed in 2022, she faced the relentless challenges of remission and recurrence yet never allowed her struggles to show.
Even when she was the most ill, her mother said, her daughter remained more focused on the well-being of those around her than her own suffering.
“I think she never wanted to be down around me because her father passed seven years ago from cancer and she knows I never really have recovered from it. So, she always had a strong face,” said Johnson’s mother.
Those who knew her best, while heartbroken by the loss of one of the most caring and loving individuals they said they’ve ever known, are grateful for the light she brought into their lives.
Porcia Hall, who met Johnson in sixth grade, said the two shared a bond that remained strong throughout the years.
From their childhood talks about school and relationships, to their adult discussions about careers and family life, Hall says she could always rely on wise counsel from Johnson, one of her oldest and dearest friends.
“Our friendship just happened naturally,” said Hall. “We were always able to be honest and transparent with each other and talked about anything and helped one another.”
Even after Hall relocated to Texas, she and Johnson kept their close bond alive, maintaining their conversations and supporting each other as friends.
“Dominique was loved by so many people because she genuinely cared about people and went out of her way to make sure you were good,” Hall said.
Johnson’s mother said the family will remain strong for her daughter’s two children. She said it’s up to her to ensure that the love and memory of her daughter continues to live on in the hearts of her grandchildren.
“She was always happiest when she was around her family and her kids were her everything,” said Johnson’s mother. “She was an amazing mother who made sure her kids knew how much she loved them.”
Hall said that even when her friend “was battling with her sickness she was still staying involved with their school and activities.” She said Johnson “was the best mom a kid could ask for and she filled her children with so much love.”
Johnson’s mother said she has come to realize the profound impact her daughter had on the lives of those she encountered, as evidenced by the outpouring of support she has received since Johnson’s death. She has been overwhelmed by calls, texts, and messages from strangers sharing how much her daughter influenced their lives and how deeply she was cherished as a friend.
While still navigating the grief of her loss, Johnson’s mother reflects on the remarkable strength her daughter displayed throughout her battle with illness.
“Even when she was really sick she never stopped loving life,” Pat Johnson said of her daughter. “My daughter will be remembered by her love, kindness and friendship she gave to the people who knew her.”
Other remembrances
Reginald Harmon
Reginald Harmon, United States Marine Corps veteran and traffic coordinator, died Jan. 24. He was 63.
Harmon was born on November 14, 1961, in Kansas City to Cecil Williams and Barbara Harmon.
He graduated from Southeast High School in 1979 and initially worked at his family’s car wash before enlisting in the United States Marine Corps, where he served for four years. After his military service, Harmon worked for PBI Gordon, a national turf and ornamental management company, for 27 years as a traffic coordinator until his retirement.
He is remembered by his wife, Johnetta Berryman-Harmon; daughters, Brittney and Jasmine Harmon; along with a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Donna Nelms
Donna Nelms, mother and community worker, died Jan. 26. She was 83.
Nelms was born on September 2, 1941, in Kansas City to Jesse and Morris Ashley. She graduated from Central High School in 1959 and earned a bachelor’s of science degree in Education from the University of Missouri in 1963.
In 1964, she married Ommie Nelms, and together they had two children during their 47 years of marriage.
Nelms was committed to community service and spent countless hours working with organizations such as Jack and Jill of America, The Boys & Girls Club of Greater Kansas City and The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art. She was also a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and The Links Inc.
She is remembered by her daughter, Adrienne Shabazz; and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.
