Lesli Björkholm Johnson

Lesli Bjorkholm Johnson, 52, passed away peacefully at her home in Richmond, Virginia, on October 8, 2025, surrounded by the family she cherished above all else.

Lesli was the epitome of strength and love, with a whole lot of laughter thrown in there. Born on April 8, 1973, Lesli was raised and spent most of her life in Richmond, and even met her future husband, Alex, at Tuckahoe Middle School. Though they attended different high schools, fate brought them back together when they attended James Madison University, and they have been by each other's side ever since.

Lesli's greatest joy was her family, whether her original clan of her parents, Tom and Barbra, and her sister Kerri, or her core, the "4-pack" she built with Alex and their sons, Wood and Bart. Her devotion to her family was boundless, and she poured her heart into every moment spent with them. Whether it was a weekly family errand day, one of the boys' ball games, or a quiet evening at home, Lesli filled it with laughter and made everything brighter.

Life presented Lesli with more than her fair share of challenges, but she met each one with remarkable strength, determination, and hope. From the outside, you would never know that she lived with multiple sclerosis for most of her life, or that she beat and was in remission from breast cancer. Lesli would always engage you with a smile, a conversation, and her unmistakable laugh. Her resilience was matched only by her capacity to love and uplift those around her.

Lesli's passing came swiftly with the sudden return of her cancer, which offered no time for battle. Yet, even in her final days, she remained surrounded by love, held close by the family who meant everything to her.

She is survived by the love of her life, her husband, Alex; their awesome sons, Wood and Bart; her devoted parents, Tom and Barbra; and her loving sister, Kerri. Lesli is also remembered with love by many extended family members across both her and Alex's families, and countless friends, all of whom were touched by her warmth and spirit.

Lesli's legacy is one of love, laughter, and unshakable strength, and she will continue to inspire and comfort all who knew her. May her memory bring peace and light to those who carry her in their hearts.

A Memorial Service will be held on October 25, 2025, from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM at Bliley's Funeral Home, 3801 Augusta Ave, Richmond, VA 23230. The family requests that guests opt for more colorful clothing than typical funeral attire as the focus is to remember Lesli with love, light, and joy.

A Celebration of Life Reception will follow the memorial service and be held at Classified Moto, 1000 East 4th Street, Richmond, VA 23224.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the National MS Society or Susan G. Komen.

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