Forum: Kristiana Johnson, despite challenges, served Edmonds

Published 1:30 am Saturday, July 23, 2022

By Adrienne Fraley Monillas / For The Herald

It is with a sense of sorrow that I write about my friend Kristiana Johnson (“Edmonds Councilmember Kristiana Johnson, 70, dies,” The Herald, July 18).

We started our friendship about 2007 with my appointment to the Edmonds Transportation Committee. KJ was the chair and transportation issues were really where she shone. We quickly became friends and I nicknamed her KJ then as I saw a sense of cool about her; she never reminded me of a Kristiana. And she enjoyed being called KJ. We had a long-term friendship where we enjoyed many things in common, meals out, reminiscing of riding our horses around Edmonds as children, attending political events. My son, Dominick, he was a favorite of hers.

She had a fabulous sense of humor and was very generous to all who met her. She was always willing to engage the people around her, especially the people who were socially awkward. I think she felt a sense of wanting them to understand they belonged. She loved her family, especially her sister Jeanette Johnson, who she was very close to. As most sisters agree, relationships with each other aren’t always easy.

She was proud of her father but particularly proud of her mother that served as a district Republican chairwoman and was involved in the League of Women Voters. Family really meant everything to her.

KJ fell ill with long-term issues about thee or four years ago. I had spoken to her then about giving up the council in order to focus on her health. She knew that eventually she would resign but she would know when. KJ faced a number of serious medical issues very bravely and with determination. I spent much time with her in hospitals and at her home, assisting where I could.

As for most of the country, our close relationship fell apart about two years ago as even the political divide hit the small town of Edmonds and the elected.

What I am most sad about is the amount of time she spent in health care facilities and hospitals in recent years. I privately suggested she not run again and spend her time left enjoying her hobbies, incuding art and pottery, family and friends and mostly resting for her health. She had once told me that her doctor suggested the pace and stress on council would be difficult for her recovery and that he recommended she resign.

This past election season she was encouraged to run again by some on council and others in Edmonds. This I believe was too much for her to overcome. I wish people would have thought of KJ first and encouraged her to take care of herself and enjoy life. In the end, KJ truly made the decision she wanted and remained on the council until the end. I hope she is finally able to rest in peace now. Adios for now my friend.

Adrienne Fraley Monillas, an Edmonds resident, served three terms on the city council.