MADISON - It is with heavy hearts that we announce the unexpected passing of Brandi Lynn Johnson, age 46, on Tuesday, July 28, 2026.

Born on September 12, 1979, in Madison, Brandi was the beloved daughter of Michael Johnson and Debbi (Kramer) Thorstad. She lived her life exactly how she wanted - to the fullest.

Brandi graduated from Madison Memorial High School in 1998. During her high school years she excelled in athletics, earning a spot on the varsity softball team as a freshman and also playing soccer.

Brandi had an exceptional eye for style and design. She spent many Tuesday’s with her mom, Debbi, at designer purse bingo, trying to find the new purse for her next outfit. Brandi was a talented interior designer and true fashion icon, she always made sure her people were dressed in the best fits and that they matched too.

She was deeply dedicated to her career and took great pride in working her way up to become a Pavement Marking Foreman. Through her leadership, hard work and determination, Brandi achieved the distinction of becoming the first female foreman, an accomplishment that reflected both her perseverance and her willingness to break barriers. A very active IUOE 139 Union member, you can see a lot of her work in and around the Dane County area, like the new rapid transit bus lanes in Madison, and many other pavement markings around the state. Rides around Madison would frequently result in talking about all the jobs she had finalized with her touch.

Brandi also found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was a phenomenal cook who put her heart and soul into it, cooking enough to feed an army. She had a deep love for animals and an uncanny ability to judge a person's character. Sundays in the fall were reserved for cheering on the Chicago Bears, surrounded by her beloved pets. As a devoted Bears fan, she especially enjoyed watching a Bears win or a Packers loss.

Brandi will be dearly missed by her son, Timothy Johnson; daughter, Kamille Williams; mother, Debbi (John); brother, Michael (Magpie) Johnson; and many aunts, uncles, cousins and friends. She was preceded in death by her father, Michael Johnson.

A Time of Sharing will be held at GUNDERSON EAST FUNERAL AND CREMATION CARE, 5203 Monona Drive, Madison, at 3 p.m. on Monday, August 17, 2026. Please bring a story to share. Visitation will be held at the funeral home from 1 p.m. until the time of the service on Monday.

Online condolences may be made at www.gundersonfh.com.

Gunderson East
Funeral & Cremation Care
5203 Monona Drive
(608) 221-5420

Brandi L Johnson

September 12, 1979 - July 28, 2026

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