Sylvia Marguerite Johnson (Brown), 91, of Tomball, Texas, passed away peacefully on June 30, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Sylvia shared 46 wonderful years of marriage with her beloved husband, Ted Curtiss Johnson. Together they built a life centered on family, hard work, faith, and hospitality.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Lawrence and Bernice Brown, brother Edward Brown and sister Velma McLeod and all those who welcomed her into eternal peace.

Born in High Springs, Florida, Sylvia spent her early years in her hometown before relocating to Texas in the early 1970s, where she would make a lasting impact on the Tomball community. Her career began with work at Bammel Elementary School, where Miles and Kyle were attending school, before she joined US Life and Title. Although she valued every position she held, Sylvia's true passion was realized in 1984 when she opened the Rib Tickler restaurant. What began as a small take-out barbecue restaurant with a modest menu quickly earned a loyal following throughout Tomball. As word spread about Sylvia's exceptional barbecue and warm hospitality, the Rib Tickler expanded to include a patio dining area before moving into larger facilities to accommodate its growing popularity. Through her tireless work ethic, personal involvement, and unwavering commitment to quality, Sylvia transformed the Rib Tickler into a beloved local institution and a gathering place for generations of customers. Outside of work, Sylvia's favorite place in the world was the charming beach town of Seaside, Florida. She treasured countless vacations there with Ted and family, finding joy in its beautiful beaches, peaceful atmosphere, and fresh seafood. Those trips created memories that her family will cherish forever. Above all else, Sylvia's greatest joy was her family.

She is survived by her devoted husband, Ted Curtiss Johnson; her children, Miles Hersey and Ann Marie Fallon, Kyle and Julie Hersey, Janee and Lou McSheffrey, Robin and Bob Hester, Amy and Scott Penner, and Ted Johnson Jr. and Robin Eyerly. She also leaves behind 11 grandchildren and 6 great-grandchildren, all of whom brought tremendous pride and happiness to her life. Known lovingly as "Gammy," Sylvia, together with Ted—affectionately known as "Papa Ted"—shared a special bond with each of their grandchildren. They especially treasured vacations in Florida with Hayden and Hope Hersey and, in later years, delighted in welcoming Arden Stehling into the family as Hayden's wife.

Sylvia will be remembered for her generous heart, remarkable work ethic, infectious smile, and the hospitality that made everyone feel like family. Whether serving customers at the Rib Tickler, hosting loved ones around the table, or enjoying a sunset on the Florida coast, she embraced life with warmth, determination, and love. Her legacy lives on through the family she cherished and the countless lives she touched.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at Klein Funeral Home, 1400 W Main Street, Tomball, Texas. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m., with committal services immediately following.

Family and friends are invited to gather afterward at the Rib Tickler, 28930 State Highway 249, Tomball, Texas, to celebrate Sylvia's life and share memories of a woman who fed not only her community, but also its spirit.

Donations can be made in her memory to MD Anderson Cancer Research

Live Stream is available for the Funeral by clicking here