Olivia Johnson Obituary: Arkansas Tech University Mourns Educator in Russellville, Arkansas

Olivia Johnson, a graduate and educator at Arkansas Tech University in Russellville, Arkansas, died on October 4, 2026, at age 24. Students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends are mourning a young woman whose education and career were closely tied to the university.

At the time of her death, Johnson served as coordinator of student success and instructor of business administration in the ATU College of Business and Economic Development. Her work brought together classroom teaching, student support and campus involvement.

From Arkansas Tech Student to Educator

Johnson graduated from Pottsville High School in 2020 before continuing her education at Arkansas Tech. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in digital marketing in 2024, followed by a Master of Business Administration in 2025.

Her transition into university employment began with a graduate assistant position during the 2024 to 2025 academic year. She later served as a visiting instructor of marketing before taking on her student success and business administration roles in August 2026.

According to her university profile, Johnson worked on student recruitment, retention, engagement and academic success. She helped students make connections and find opportunities to prepare for careers in business. Her listed teaching experience included Principles of Management, Principles of Marketing and International Marketing.

Those responsibilities kept her involved in several parts of university life. Having recently completed her own degrees, she was beginning a career helping students navigate the same institution where she had studied.

Leadership Through Service and Student Organizations

Johnson received the 2024 ATU School of Business Leadership Award while completing her undergraduate education. The award recognized participation in university organizations, community service and academic achievement. At the April awards reception, she was one of two students receiving the business school’s top annual student honors. She was also named to Who’s Who at Arkansas Tech University in 2024.

Her involvement with Future Business Leaders of America Collegiate continued after graduation. She became the ATU chapter’s faculty advisor, helping support an organization that connects students through service, competition and professional opportunities.

The Arka Tech, the university’s student newspaper, reported on her role in the chapter’s return to activity in March 2025. Its first event after a period of leadership transitions was the ATU Rocks Project.

Participants painted rocks to place around the Russellville campus. Students who found them could keep them or share photographs online. Johnson explained that the project was intended to bring joy to students, faculty and staff, with hopes of involving other campus organizations.

The event offered a simple way for students to volunteer together. It also provided a glimpse of Johnson’s approach to student involvement, combining an accessible activity with an opportunity to contribute to campus life.

Cause of Death and Remembering Olivia Johnson

Arkansas Tech’s published memorial confirms Johnson’s death but does not state a cause. The university directs readers to her obituary through Lemley Funeral Service for further information.

For those remembering Johnson, her university record documents a progression from student leader to graduate and educator. She completed two degrees, earned recognition for leadership and returned to work with students in the business college.

Her passing leaves the Arkansas Tech community mourning someone who had become part of its classrooms, organizations and student support work. Her achievements and service remain central to the university’s remembrance of her life.