Jane Barlow Johnson

Jane Barlow Johnson of Clinton, Mississippi, passed away October 2, 2026, at the age of 88 leaving behind a family that will miss her warmth, her wit, and her ready smile.

She was born on January 20, 1938, in the Hopewell Community of Copiah County, Mississippi to the late Pauline Clark Barlow and Walter Eugene Barlow. She attended Copiah Lincoln Jr. College before going on to earn a B.A. in English from the University of Mississippi. A blind date with a handsome young Navy pilot, Jean Willard Johnson, blossomed into a loving marriage that lasted more than 65 years.

Jane devoted herself to being a full-time homemaker and mother, and she poured her heart into creating a happy home for her family. Quick with a compliment and even quicker with a smile, she had a sharp sense of humor and a friendly way about her that put everyone at ease. Those who knew her well also knew she was a keen competitor, never one to shy away from a little friendly rivalry, particularly at the bridge table.

Some of Jane's happiest days were spent on road trips with her family. She was the dedicated navigator on countless journeys across the country, with Jean serving as captain of the station wagon (eventually upgraded to the more spacious van.) Together they created wonderful memories, one mile at a time. Once their children were grown, Jane and Jean expanded their adventures overseas, taking cruises and touring Europe on several occasions.

Music was another of Jane's great loves. She spent many happy hours at the piano, and she passed that love along to her children by enrolling them in all manner of lessons. She had a way of making holidays feel special, filling the home with the kind of traditions and joy that her family will carry with them always.

Jane was a longtime member of First Baptist Church Clinton, and her faith was a steady and central thread of her life. She lived out her Christian beliefs with grace and devotion. She was a longtime member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, where she served a term as Regent. She also belonged to the Clinton Towne Club and enjoyed the camaraderie with her Bridge Club.

Jane was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Jean Willard Johnson; and her brother, Walter Eugene Barlow, Jr.

She is survived by daughters Polly Brown (Joe) of Panama City Beach, FL, Claire Adams (Jack) of Huntsville, AL, and Amanda Bosarge (Scott) of Flora, MS. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren, Shelby Watson, Mackenzie Seilhan (Josh), Cade Watson, Katherine Williams (John), Caroline Gist (Chris), John Adams, Jacob Jenkins (Mary Horton), Hayden Bosarge (Tori), Jane Claire Jenkins, Brooke Bosarge, Brady Bosarge, and 9 great grandchildren.

Jane lived a life full of faith, laughter, music, and love. She leaves behind a family shaped by her kindness and a legacy of joy that will endure for generations. She now rests in the presence of her Lord reunited with Jean and the loved ones who went before her.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Clare Bridge Memory Care at Brookdale Assisted Living in Clinton, Legacy Hospice, VitalCaring Hospice, and Visiting Angels for their compassion and care during Jane’s final days.

Services will be held Monday, October 5 at Wright & Ferguson Funeral Home in Clinton. Visitation will begin at 12:30 with the service beginning at 2:00.