Karen Johnson (27 Nov 1939 - 13 Feb 2024)

In loving memory of Karen Johnson who sadly passed away on 13th February 2024.

She had worked with and kept animals throughout her life. She trained as a veterinary nurse and also worked for British Drug Houses (BDH) and Aspro looking after the laboratory animals.

She bred some very successful champion dogs including Lakeland Terriers, Shih Tzus and Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Along with her husband Cyril, she also judged dogs to Championship level including at Crufts. She was very involved with the breeding and judging of Golden Guernsey and Pygmy Goats attending many agricultural shows around the country. At home, she adored her small herds of Donkeys and Miniature Shetland Ponies.

Up until mid-August last year she had still been looking after her two donkeys, two pygmy goats, Geese, Ducks, Chickens, Cat, Dogs, Rabbits and Guinea Pigs every day and remained very headstrong much to the bemusement of her carers who often had to work around the stables with her! She was also still representing and promoting Pygmy Goats at Ardingly’s Spring and Autumn Shows until April 2023 even though she no longer attended the large shows.

Her life will be celebrated at Surrey and Sussex Crematorium on Wednesday 3rd April at 2.30pm. After the funeral there will be a small gathering at the Heathy Farm Pub & Restaurant which is next to the Crematorium.

Instead of flowers, Paul and Tony would ask for small donations to Mane Chance Sanctuary, a local charity that rescues and rehabilitates unwanted Horses and Ponies and supports local community projects.