KING OF PRUSSIA, PA (ABNS 7/14/25)—Margaret “Peggy” A. (Ferris) Johnson, age 85, died peacefully at home on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, surrounded by the love of her devoted family. Johnson served as President of American Baptist Churches USA from January 1, 2004-December 31, 2005.

A woman of deep faith and unwavering compassion, she was a proud member of the First Baptist Church of North Kingstown, R.I., and served as a Licensed Lay Minister. Her spiritual leadership touched countless lives as she ministered to many congregations and officiated at numerous funerals with grace and empathy. She also found joy and purpose in the women’s ministry, lifting others with her words, presence, and prayers.

Johnson was a devoted member of American Baptist Churches USA (ABCUSA) and the American Baptist Churches of Rhode Island (ABCORI). In addition to her service as President of ABCUSA, she also held the role of Eastern Coordinator of American Baptist Women’s Ministries and led ABCORI as President for two terms. In each of these roles, she served with humility, strength, and a true servant’s heart.

Born in Woonsocket, R.I., in her early career Johnson was a registered nurse in hospitals, industrial settings, and at an elementary school. Upon leaving her nursing role in 1979, she went on to co-found Flowers by Bert & Peg in North Kingstown, R.I., where she worked until her retirement in 2020. Peggy’s daughter, Pam proudly continues the business to this day. She was the wife of the late W. Edward “Ted” Johnson and a cherished presence in the lives of those who knew her.

American Baptist Churches USA is one of the most diverse Christian denominations today, with approximately 5,000 congregations comprised of 1.3 million members, across the United States and Puerto Rico, all engaged in God’s mission around the world.