Davey Johnson

The past two weeks have given all of us at SOS a moment to reflect on the extraordinary legacy of Susan and Davey. For more than two decades, they poured their hearts into our mission, opening not only their home but their lives to our Scholars. Whether it was a hot meal, a listening ear, or even a safe place to live, the Johnsons gave freely and without hesitation.

Many of my fondest SOS memories trace back to their home. On my very first day as an SOS employee, Susan and Davey welcomed Scholars and alumnae for a back-to-school barbecue, filling the day with laughter and encouragement. Around Thanksgiving, Susan transformed her kitchen into a classroom, teaching Scholars how to bake pies—patiently showing us how to peel apples just so and craft the perfect crumb topping. Nearly every holiday, their home became a haven for a Scholar who had nowhere else to go, ensuring no one ever felt alone.

From the very beginning, the Johnson family has been the heartbeat of this work. Even after moving to Sarasota, Susan and Davey never stopped guiding, nurturing, and championing the brilliant young women they believed in so deeply. Their legacy shines on in every graduate, every dream fulfilled, and every new possibility opened for the next generation.

In these recent weeks, it has been deeply inspiring to witness how the SOS community has rallied around Susan—surrounding her with love, support, and comfort. Just as she and Davey gave so generously to all of us, our community has come together to hold her close, a reflection of the very spirit of care and compassion they modeled so beautifully.

Ginny