Margaret Johnson

Margaret Ruth Johnson, longtime resident of Aurora, passed away on Dec. 16, 2025 at Evanston, Ill. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 25, 2026 at 10:30 a.m., at Messiah Lutheran Church, 415 South 18th Street, Aurora with the Rev. Rudy Flores officiating. 
Margaret was born on Feb. 11, 1945 in Deshler to Edwin and Ruth (Heidenreich) Cording and grew up in Hebron. 
She met her husband, Carl, living as neighbors on opposite sides of their apartment in Aurora. They married on June 30, 1974 in Hebron. Carl passed away Jan. 31, 2025.
Her greatest loves were her husband Carl and their kids. Her passion was always teaching and caring for children. Margaret started as a teacher in Aurora and later opened her daycare, which she had in their home in Aurora for over 35 years, caring for numerous children in the community. She also enjoyed volunteering at her church, Messiah Lutheran. Her greatest joy later in life was spending time with her family and doting over her four grandchildren.
Margaret is survived by her children: Ross (Jennifer) Johnson of Austin, TX and Laura (Brian) Martin of Skokie, IL; sister Sharon (James) Crouse of Crete and brother David (Lee) Cording of Hebron; grandchildren: Cole Johnson, Grace Johnson, Kylie Martin and Ella Martin.
She was preceded by her parents and husband Carl.
In lieu of memorials, please consider a donation to the Aurora Child Care Center or Aurora Public Library for children’s books.