OBITUARY: Zoe Faris Johnson

In Memoriam: A Life Well-Traveled

It is with a deep sadness and a heart brimming with cherished memories that we bid farewell to Zoe Faris Johnson, who departed from this world on June 24.

Zoe was a daughter of the late Walker Farris Johnson and Maude Davis Johnson, and she was born in Chesterfield, South Carolina on March 29, 1941.

Along with her parents, she is predeceased by brothers Kenneth Johnson and W.F. Johnson.

Zoe is survived by her beloved son, Ben Rubeck and his wife Sunny Panyanouvong-Rubeck of Charlotte; brother, Donald E. Johnson and wife Virginia; sisters, Diane Johnson Edwards and husband Wayne, Kay Johnson Smith and husband Del, and Robin Johnson Taylor and her husband the Rev. Bill. Zoe also leaves behind many nieces and nephews all of whom she loved dearly.

Her journey through life was a testament to adventure, curiosity, and an unyielding passion for exploration that began as a young girl and blossomed into a kaleidoscope of experiences spanning the globe.

Born with a wanderlust, Zoe’s first chapter unfolded in Clearwater, Florida, where she pursued her education at St. Petersburg Jr. College. It was during this time that fate introduced her to a young man named Jim Morrison, whose charisma and creativity left an indelible mark on her. Little did she know that her unusual friend would in a few years become one of the most famous lead singers of the ’60s in the band The Doors.

Upon graduating, Zoe set her sights on the vibrant pulse of New York City, where she found herself working as a clerk on Wall Street. The city’s energy fueled her aspirations, and she seized every opportunity, including attending the historic Beatles concert at Shea Stadium, etching the memory into her heart as one of her fondest. Zoe was also one of the first people in America to wear a miniskirt, a bold fashion choice that matched her adventurous spirit.

It should be no surprise, Zoe’s greatest joy lay in the fulfillment of her travel dreams. From the regal halls of Buckingham Palace, where she marveled at centuries of history and opulence, to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, where she climbed to touch the sky, her adventures were as diverse as they were exhilarating. She trekked through Pompeii’s ruins, stood in awe before the grandeur of the Swiss Alps, was enchanted to see the windmills in Holland, and explored the majestic sequoias of California, finding wonder in each corner of the world she touched. On her last trip abroad to Paris in 2022 she was able to visit the grave of her old friend from Clearwater, Jim Morrison.

Her ‘Bucket List’ was not just a checklist of destinations but a collection of emotions: from the awe of the Sistine Chapel to the thrill of seeing Old Faithful erupt in Yellowstone. Each experience left an imprint, shaping her perspective and enriching her understanding of the world and its people.

Her most cherished role was that of a devoted and loving mother. Her son Ben, a beacon of pride and joy, flourished in Charlotte where he met his wife Sunny, who became like a daughter to Zoe. Together, they continue her legacy of exploration and curiosity.

As we reflect on her journey, we remember Zoe mainly for her boundless love, resilience, and unwavering zest for life. Her spirit resonates with those who had the privilege to know her. She leaves behind a legacy of endless curiosity.

As we say farewell to a beloved mother, sister, aunt, and friend, we take comfort in knowing that her spirit soars among the stars, forever chasing new horizons and eternal sunsets — the ultimate fulfillment of her enduring ‘Bucket List’.

The family will receive friends for visitation at Cordova United Methodist from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 29, 2024. The funeral will start at noon. Entombment will follow at Richmond County Memorial Park Cemetery. Online condolences can be made at watson-kingfuneralhome.com.

In lieu of flowers, donations should be sent to Cordova United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 279, Cordova, NC 28330.