About Barbara Johnson

A Legacy of Joy, Hope, and Triumph (1927-2007)

"God writes straight with crooked lines, and His ways are far more imaginative than our small minds." - Barbara Johnson

The Woman Behind the Laughter

Barbara Johnson, affectionately known as the "Geranium Lady," transformed countless lives through her unique ability to find joy in life's darkest moments. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, she began her journey as a medical secretary and investigator for the Board of Medical Examiners, but God had greater plans for her ministry of hope and humor.

A Journey of Faith

Barbara's path to becoming a bestselling author and beloved speaker emerged from profound personal challenges:

  • Her husband Bill's near-fatal accident and long recovery

  • The loss of two sons - one in Vietnam, another to a drunk driver

  • A period of family estrangement

  • Her six-year battle with cancer (Central Nervous System Lymphoma)

Yet through each trial, she chose to "pick flowers instead of weeds," transforming her pain into purpose and helping millions find light in their darkness.

Literary Legacy

  • Published her first book at age 50

  • Authored over 19 bestselling books

  • Sold more than 5 million copies worldwide

  • Known as the "Christian Erma Bombeck"

  • Books translated into multiple languages

Ministry Impact

Spatula Ministries

Founded with her husband Bill, Spatula Ministries became a lifeline for parents in crisis. The ministry's unique approach uses a "spatula of love" to help parents:

  • Navigate family challenges

  • Find hope in difficult circumstances

  • Build supportive communities

  • Restore family relationships

Speaking & Teaching

Featured speaker on the "Women of Faith" tour

Popular conference speaker nationwide

Celebrity Mom of the Year (1996)

Touched lives through humor and hope

Barbara's Guiding Principles

Choose Joy

"Laughter is the melody of the heart."

Embrace Hope

"Pain is inevitable, but misery is optional."

Trust God's Plan

"God's timing is always perfect, even when it doesn't match our schedule."

Share Your Story

"Your greatest ministry will likely come from your deepest hurt."

Timeline

1927

• Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan
• A singer for the Radio Children's Bible Hour
• Attended Bob Jones Academy and College

1950s-1960s

• Married Bill Johnson

• Raised six children
• One son killed in Vietnam

1973

• One son killed by a drunk driver
• One son estranged in the homosexual community
• Started Journaling her first book

1979

• Released "Where Does a Mother Go to Resign?"

• Founded Spatula Ministries

1990s

• "Stick a Geranium in Your Hat and Be Happy"

becomes bestseller

• Joined Women of Faith speaking tour

• Named Celebrity Mom of the Year (1996)

2000s

• Continued writing through cancer battle

• Added four more books to her collection

• Left lasting legacy through ministry and writing

2007

• Passed away July 2nd, leaving a legacy of hope

and joy

• Her work continues through Spatula Ministries

and her beloved books

Barbara's Final Gift

Her son David completes her literary journey with "When All Else Fails, Blame Your Mother," incorporating her personal correspondence and final wishes, bringing her story full circle.

Crown Bearer's Challenge

The Crown Bearer's Challenge inspires acts of compassion and encouragement, calling us to lift others through healing words, extended hands, and shared burdens in life's difficult moments.

In Her Own Words

"We cannot change the past, but we can change our attitude toward it."

"Sometimes your worst times can become your best times."

"Joy is the most infallible sign of the presence of God."

Photo Gallery

Connect with David

© 2025 Official Barbara Johnson Library. All rights reserved.

© 2025 Official Barbara Johnson Library