Obituary of Penny Johnson

Penny "PJ" Johnson died on March 23, 2016 in Santa Cruz, surrounded by her loved ones. Penny was born on December 17, 1945 to Belden Steiner Hedgpeth and Naida Faye Valentine Hedgpeth, in Santa Cruz. Her family moved to Fairbanks, Alaska in 1948 and in 1950 they returned to Santa Cruz. Penny attended Live Oak Methodist Church, Live Oak Elementary, Branciforte Junior High and Santa Cruz High Schools. She graduated from Leigh High School in San Jose in 1963. Penny worked for Deluxe Check Printers and Kelly Temporary Services in San Jose. In February 1964 Penny joined George Greene Consulting Engineers (now PM Group) in San Jose. She worked for this firm for 38 years, retiring in April 2012. Penny was known for her smile and unique giggle. She was always friendly, never judging anyone, and she was always trying to get her family together. Penny had a large collection of birds of which she was quite knowledgeable of, particularly the cockatiels. She was always willing to give advice about birds and lend a helping hand. Penny was also an active member of a local knitting club, Knit Wits. Penny is survived by her children, Conrad and Kenna; her son-in-law, Bruce; her sisters, Naida and Wendy (Roy); and her brother, Belden (Barbara). Penny is the loving grandmother of Brittney (Jordan) and Kaylah, and great-grandmother of River and Ryder. She is survived by many cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. Penny will be missed. Services will be held at the Santa Cruz Bible Church at 440 Frederick St. in Santa Cruz on Saturday, June 11, 2016 at 11:00 AM. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Native Animal Rescue - Wildlife Rehabilitation Center will be appreciated.