Martha Lavonda Johnson

Martha LaVonda Johnson was born on December 5, 1956 to Robert Piper and Barbara Johnson in Boyce, LA. She was educated in the local school district and graduated from A. Wettermark High School.



LaVonda was blessed with two children whom she loved dearly, Daphanie and Danean.



LaVonda spent her entire career working with individuals with intellectual disabilities. She worked tirelessly to help her patients and clients live happy, fulfilling lives. She began her career at Pinecrest State Hospital where she worked with developmental and mentally impaired babies. She would continue to work within this field at Link Associates for over 10 years.



LaVonda was also a skilled cook. Being from Louisiana, you know her cajun dishes were all authentic. Red beans and rice, jambalaya, gumbo, homemade biscuits and fried chicken all made with love!



LaVonda was extremely grateful for the opportunity to relocate from Louisiana to Iowa. She longed for a place that was safe and had plenty of opportunities. She found just that and more in Des Moines, IA. The love of her life and best friend, Leaward Bauers, came from Louisiana with her. With her family and friends close by, LaVonda found a home.



LaVonda transitioned from time to eternity on April 9, 2015. There to meet her on the other side was her mother, Barbara Johnson and her brother, James Craig Johnson.



LaVonda leaves to cherish her memory her children Daphanie (JaBre) Norwood and Danean (Julie) Johnson; grandchildren, Jamal, Javell, TraBre, ZaBre; siblings, LaWanda King and Anthony Johnson; her long time companion, Leaward Bauers and a host of other relatives and friends.