Arlinda Kay Johnson

Arlinda Kay Johnson, 49, the daughter of Clarence Wilson Blakely, Jr., and Donna Kay (Schlotzhauer) Waterhouse, was born Thursday, May 17, 1973, in El Dorado Springs, and passed from this life at 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, April 18, 2023, at KU Medical Center in Kansas City, KS.

Arlinda lived her early life in El Dorado Springs and Schell City, then spent many years as a “Military Brat” after her mother remarried. She graduated from high school in Bitburg, Germany, but through the years had lived in Arkansas, Michigan, Texas, Oregon and Washington, before making her way back to El Dorado Springs to stay. Once back in this area she met her future husband, Paul Johnson. They were married in 1997 and Arlinda gained a son, Adam, before she and Paul added Jeremiah and Hannah Joy to complete their family. All three children survive to mourn her passing.

Arlinda’s career path was always in the banking industry. She was well known at Community National Bank and Trust in El Dorado Springs where she had long held the position of Assistant Loan Officer. She made countless friends with her outstanding and caring customer service manner. The loss of this selfless professional who cared deeply for those she served will be felt in the community and beyond. When Arlinda could find a bit of spare time, she enjoyed traveling, photography – mostly only when she was behind the camera – and also had a great love of the ocean, especially when sitting in a beachside chair enjoying the view. Beyond those things, number one was her love of family – and of special mention are her six grandchildren who were “the lights of her life.”

Aside from her three children: Jeremiah, Hannah, Adam and his wife, Meagan, and the six grandchildren, Arlinda is survived by her mother, Donna Waterhouse and husband, Rick; adopted dad, Greg Wright; brothers. Kevin Harms and wife, Sue, Randy Harms and wife, Tracy, and Blake Waterhouse; sister, Chauntae Waterhouse; many extended family members; and a host of dear friends.

Arlinda was preceded in death just last year by her father, Jr. Blakely, who passed away Feb. 13, 2022.

A Memorial Service for Arlinda Kay Johnson will be held at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 29, at Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home, El Dorado Springs with Pastor Roger Beach officiating. Visitation is scheduled from 5-6 p.m. just prior to the service at the funeral home. Disposition is by inurnment.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a fund for the family in care of Bland-Hackleman Funeral Home.

Online condolences may be left at: www.blandhackleman.com.