Jacqueline Eloise Lowrey Burchfield Johnson, 94, of Columbia, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 21, 2025, at Mari De Villa, in Town and Country, Missouri.

Born on July 7, 1930, in Dahlgren, Illinois, Jacqueline was the cherished daughter of Gale Anton and Fae (Crews) Lowrey. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother whose warm presence and caring nature touched the lives of all who knew her.

Jacqueline married Charles Edward Burchfield of Mexico, Missouri, on January 31, 1957. Together, they built a loving life until his passing on May 18, 1996. In 2003, she married Robert Findley Johnson of Martinsburg, Missouri. Robert preceded her in death on December 3, 2021.

A private burial will take place at a later date.

A proud graduate of Mexico High School, Jacqueline went on to earn both a Bachelor's degree in Political Science and a Master's degree in Library Science from the University of Missouri. A determined and independent woman, she worked her way through college, exemplifying hard work and perseverance.

For over two decades, Jacqueline dedicated her career to fostering a love of reading and learning in young minds. She served as an elementary school librarian at Columbia Public Schools, where she was beloved by students and faculty alike. Her passion for books and teaching was evident in every aspect of her work, and she made a lasting impact on countless children and their families.

Beyond her professional life, Jacqueline had a wide range of interests that enriched her life. She enjoyed the challenge of crossword and jigsaw puzzles, always seeking to expand her mind and challenge herself. A lover of nature, she spent many hours tending to her garden, where she found peace and joy. She was a lifelong reader with an insatiable curiosity, always learning and exploring new ideas. Jacqueline served as a Methodist Lay Speaker. Her dedication to spreading the message of hope and compassion through the church was evident in her years of service.

Jacqueline was an only child, and although her family was small, she formed deep connections with her friends and colleagues, who became like family to her. Her kindness, intellect, and commitment to her work and community will be remembered fondly by all who knew her.

Survivors include three daughters, Susan Burchfield of Ballwin, Cheryl (David) Burk of North Carolina and Leigh Hollinger of Columbia; six grandchildren, Adam (Kaitlyn) Burk, Morgan Burk, Bradley (Katie) Burk, BreAnn Hollinger, Madilyn Hollinger and Sarah Hollinger; and great-grandchildren, Blakelee Burk, Addison Burk and Teegan Burk.

She will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.