Kelly Johnson, the wife of House Speaker Mike Johnson, has been a steadfast partner throughout her husband’s political and legal career. Married for over 24 years, Kelly has played a pivotal role in supporting Mike as he ascended to the position of Speaker of the House. From her career as a teacher and counselor to her dedication as a mother of four, Kelly embodies strength and commitment in both her personal and professional life. Here’s everything you need to know about Kelly Johnson and her enduring partnership with Mike Johnson.
Early Life and Education
Kelly Johnson, formerly Kelly Lary, was born and raised in Louisiana, where she developed a passion for education and helping others. She attended Louisiana Tech University, earning a degree in elementary education. Kelly’s academic pursuits led to her certification as a teacher, and she spent years teaching in both private and public schools across Louisiana.
Her dedication to education inspired her daughter Abigail, who followed in her footsteps by attending Louisiana Tech University to pursue higher education.
Career as a Counselor
After years in education, Kelly transitioned into counseling, a career path deeply rooted in her Christian faith. She founded Onward Christian Counseling Services, where she serves as president. The organization provides faith-based individual, marriage, and family counseling services to communities across Louisiana. Her work in this field highlights her compassion and commitment to improving the lives of others.
In addition to her counseling work, Kelly has been involved with the Louisiana Right to Life organization since 2018, serving as a director and advisor. This role reflects her advocacy for pro-life values, aligning with her husband’s stance on various social issues.
Love Story with Mike Johnson
Kelly met Mike Johnson while he was pursuing his law degree at Louisiana State University. Their connection was instant, with Mike admitting that he told Kelly he loved her just three weeks after they met. Reflecting on their early romance in a 2023 birthday tribute to Kelly, Mike wrote, “I told Kelly I loved her about three weeks after we met(!), and I really did. But I couldn’t have known then how that early infatuation would mature over the years into the deep, soulful appreciation I now have for everything about this amazing woman.”
The couple married on May 1, 1999, in a covenant marriage—a unique and legally binding arrangement only available in Louisiana, Arizona, and Arkansas. Covenant marriages require premarital counseling and place significant restrictions on divorce, reflecting the couple’s commitment to a lifelong partnership.
Covenant Marriage: A Shared Commitment
Covenant marriage is a testament to Kelly and Mike’s dedication to their faith and each other. In a 2001 interview with Diane Sawyer on Good Morning America, Kelly shared her perspective on the arrangement, saying, “From a woman’s perspective, I’ve been in some bad relationships before, and I just knew that when I met the man that I was supposed to marry, I wanted to know it was for a lifetime.”
Mike’s decision to enter into a covenant marriage was influenced by his own experience with divorce in his family. Speaking about this in 2005, he noted, “My own parents are divorced. As anyone who goes through that knows, that was a traumatic thing for our whole family. I’m a big proponent of marriage and fidelity and all the things that go with it, and I’ve seen firsthand the devastation [divorce] can cause.”
This shared belief in the sanctity of marriage has been a cornerstone of their relationship, providing a strong foundation for their family life.
Family Life and Parenting
Kelly and Mike Johnson have four children: Hannah, Abigail, Jack, and Will. Their family life reflects their strong values and dedication to nurturing their children’s growth and success.
- Hannah Johnson: A graduate of Louisiana State University, Hannah is currently pursuing a law degree, following in her father’s footsteps.
- Abigail Johnson: Currently completing her undergraduate studies, Abigail plans to attend law school as well.
- Jack and Will Johnson: The younger children, Jack and Will, are actively involved in family life and often appear in photos shared by the Johnsons.
In a June 2023 Facebook post, Mike expressed pride in his children, writing, “Kelly and I are so proud of our kids. They each make a lot of sacrifices for us to do this job, but they never complain. They just keep smiling, working hard, and by God’s grace, thriving in all they do.”
Support During Mike’s Career
Kelly has been an unwavering source of support for Mike throughout his political journey. During his acceptance speech as House Speaker in 2023, Mike publicly thanked Kelly, acknowledging her prayers and sacrifices during the demanding weeks leading up to his election. Although Kelly was unable to attend the event due to travel constraints, Mike’s heartfelt gratitude underscored her vital role in his life and career.
As Mike continues to navigate the challenges of his role in Congress, Kelly remains a steady presence, balancing her responsibilities as a counselor, mother, and wife.
Faith and Advocacy
Kelly’s faith is central to her life and work. Her counseling practice and involvement with Louisiana Right to Life exemplify her dedication to Christian values. Her ability to integrate faith into her professional endeavors has made her a respected figure in her community.
Conclusion
Kelly Johnson is more than just the wife of House Speaker Mike Johnson. She is an accomplished counselor, dedicated mother, and advocate for faith-based values. Her enduring partnership with Mike, rooted in their covenant marriage and shared beliefs, serves as an example of commitment and faith. As a vital part of the Johnson family’s journey, Kelly continues to inspire those around her with her resilience and grace.