Verona Bell Johnes, a long-time resident of Lompoc, died Thursday the 28th of January at Cottage Hospital in Santa Barbara. Born in 1936 in Duncan, Oklahoma, Verona also lived in Texas and California with her parents, Bertha and Speegle Creel. Verona received her Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts at Fresno State University along with a teaching credential. Verona married Charles Johnes in 1961. Verona also received two Masters degrees: one in Education from University of California, Santa Barbara, and the other in Special Education from Cal Lutheran College.

Verona taught elementary school for several years before staying at home with her three children. Verona later worked as a Reading Specialist and Substitute Teacher for Lompoc Unified School District and Administrative Professional at Vandenberg Air Force Base. Verona enjoyed doll club, reading, going to the beach, cooking, and family gatherings.

Verona is survived by her husband of fifty-five years, Charles Johnes; her three children and spouses Michelle and Jim Turner, Chuck and Teressa Johnes, and Ellen and Reggie Golla; her grandchildren James Turner, Chelsea Turner, Lauren Golla, and Isabella Golla. She is also survived by her sisters Peggy Parks and Sandra Sheldon. She was preceded in death by her parents and her sister Jimielee Cole.

Verona's Memorial Service will be held at the chapel of Starbuck-Lind Mortuary on Saturday, February 13, 2016, at 2:00 pm.