News Summary
Romanza Johnson, a revered community advocate in Bowling Green, has passed away at 85. Known for her dedication to public service, she contributed significantly to various organizations. An alumna of WKU, Johnson was awarded for her volunteer work and played a crucial role in many community initiatives, leaving a lasting legacy in her area.
Bowling Green – Romanza Johnson, a dedicated community advocate, passed away on Wednesday evening at the age of 85. Her contributions to the Bowling Green area have left a significant mark, as she devoted her life to service and advocacy in numerous capacities.
Born on December 1, 1939, in Scottsville, Kentucky, Johnson graduated from Western Kentucky University (WKU) with two degrees, earning her first in 1960 and the second in 1968. She served as a teacher before joining Bowling Green Municipal Utilities, where she worked as a home economist from 1970 until her retirement in 1993.
Throughout her lifetime, Johnson was involved in 27 different community service organizations, displaying a remarkable commitment to various causes. Her contributions spanned organizations such as the Dream Factory of Bowling Green, the Houchens Center for Women, Hospice of Southern Kentucky, and the Rape Crisis Center. In recognition of her exceptional volunteer work, Johnson was awarded WKU’s Distinguished Medal of Community and Public Service Award in 2023.
In addition to her volunteer work, Johnson was known for her philanthropic efforts. Together with her husband, Ralph, she donated 2.62 acres of land for the development of Romanza Johnson Park, which opened in 1997. The park has become a favored spot for canoers and kayakers in the area. Johnson was also honored for her involvement with the Salvation Army, where she played a vital role in constructing the Center of Hope shelter and headed the Angel Tree Program.
A trailblazer for women in the community, Johnson was the first recipient of the prestigious ATHENA Award, which acknowledges women who exemplify leadership and service. Her influence extended to the Bowling Green Area Chamber’s Ambassadors Club, of which she was a charter member. Johnson held multiple leadership roles in the organization, including three terms as chair, and was instrumental in initiatives related to the Arts, Agriculture, and Retention Committees.
Community leaders have described Johnson as a “distinguished member of the community” and “a beacon of service.” Her dedication has fostered an environment of growth and support for crucial non-profit organizations and outreach programs throughout the Bowling Green area.
The City of Bowling Green and the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce have issued statements honoring Johnson’s lifelong dedication to public service, highlighting the void left by her passing. As a social influencer, she passionately advocated for education, service, and civic engagement, inspiring many in the process.
As the community begins to process her loss, stories about Johnson’s legacy are expected to continue circulating, providing insights into her significant impact. Updates regarding her funeral arrangements are currently being organized and will be shared as they become available.
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Additional Resources
- WNKY: Romanza Johnson, Long-Time Community Service Advocate, Passes Away
- Wikipedia: Romanza Johnson
- WBKO: Community Members Remember Romanza Johnson
- Google Search: Romanza Johnson
- WNKY: Romanza Johnson Park Closed Indefinitely
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Advocacy
- WBKO: Hospice Southern Kentucky Celebrates 40th Anniversary
- Google News: Bowling Green Kentucky
Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER
The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.
