Mercedes Panugaling Johnson, affectionately known as Mercy, passed away on October 10, 2024, at the age of 64 after a brave and courageous battle with cancer. Born in Digos City, Philippines on April 20, 1960, she immigrated to California at the age of 31 and became a lifelong resident of Pittsburg. Mercy was a loving mother, devoted Catholic, and dear friend to all who knew her.

A woman of strength and generosity, Mercy was the proud mother of her two sons, Anthony and Brian Johnson. Her remarkable resilience through many of life's challenges, from serious illness to family loss, inspired everyone around her. She took pride in her 24-year career as a medical assistant and helped countless people at her optometry office in Antioch. Her hard work and sacrifice went a long way in supporting her sons and family in the Philippines.

Dancing was Mercy's greatest passion, and she loved sharing the art of Filipino folk dances with the world through her performances across the SF Bay Area. Whether at family parties, church events, or casual evenings with friends, she moved with a joyful spirit that would put a smile on any face who saw her.

She was also a beloved member of the Church of the Good Shepherd, where she regularly donated her time, talents, and treasures at the many gatherings and performances hosted there. She spent her evenings praying with the Santo Niño prayer group, treasuring the Lord. Her legacy will live on through each of the lives that she impacted.

Mercy is preceded in heaven by her father, Antonio Panugaling; mother, Consuelo Panugaling; brother, Cesar Panugaling; sister, Elena Panugaling; and son, Brian Johnson. She is survived by her brothers, Eddie, Ronald, and Rene Panugaling; her sisters, Inday, Elsa, Melita, and Meriam Panugaling; her son, Anthony Johnson; and an abundance of loving family and friends. We will miss her more than words can express.

Visitation and a rosary will be held on Friday, October 25, 2024, from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at the Pittsburg Funeral Chapel. The funeral mass will be on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 10am at Church of the Good Shepherd. Committal services will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery in Antioch.