Memorial Service Planned for Warm Springs Middle School Teacher

A public memorial service is planned to celebrate the life of a Warm Springs Middle School teacher who passed away.

Bethany Hays Johnson, 36, died Saturday after a long battle with cancer, according to a news release from Karen Parris, spokesperson for the Murrieta Valley Unified School District.

The service for Johnson is scheduled for 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 1 in the multipurpose room of Warm Springs Middle School, 39245 Calle de Fortuna in Murrieta.

Johnson came to the district as a new teacher in 2003, right after earning her credential, Parris said.

Former Warm Springs Principal Tim Custer hired Johnson to teach language arts and social studies.

“Bethany was a leader on campus and teachers looked up to her," Custer said. "She had a keen knowledge of her subject matter and her lessons reflected the love she had for the subject and her desire to reach her students."

Current Warm Springs Principal Mick Wager said Johnson will be missed.

“Bethany was extremely talented, caring, and effective and she was well-loved by staff and students alike," Wager said. "Her positive attitude and sunny disposition were an inspiration to all who knew her. Bethany will be missed by her colleagues, students, family and friends."

In lieu of flowers, donations in Johnson's name may be made to the Murrieta High Schools Scholarship Foundation by mailing or taking to the MVUSD District Support Center, 41870 McAlby Court, Murrieta, CA, 92562.

For more information, contact Karen Parris at 951-696-1600, ext. 1022.