Sula Belle Johnson Bristow

June 29, 1927 - April 19, 2026

Sula Belle Johnson Bristow, Mama Sula, passed away peacefully at home on April 19, 2026, at age 98, with her daughter Cynthia and son-in-law Bill by her side. Born June 29, 1927, near Worland, Wyo., she was the youngest of eight siblings. She was preceded in death by her parents, siblings, husband Bob, and son Don. She is survived by her son Dave: daughter Cynthia and husband Bill; grandson Bill Jr and partner Lauren Roads; granddaughter Kristie and husband Josh Harrington, great-grandsons Elias, Ethan, Tristan; grandson Isaiah, and great-granddaughters Ayla and Leigha Lynn; along with many nieces and nephews.

As a child, Sula lived in several states, including Wyoming, Idaho, California, and Missouri. She attended many schools and was a valedictorian of her eighth-grade class in Warrensburg, Mo. She earned her high school equivalency certificate in 1966 and she took writing courses.

Sula married Bob Bristow on February 12, 1949. They had two sons, Dave and Don, and a daughter, Cynthia. She was a devoted homemaker, gardener, writer, and active church member, teaching Sunday school and holding many church roles.

She worked briefly as a mail carrier and postal clerk at the Greybull Post Office. She also worked at the Office Supply and the hospital. After that, she managed a thrift shop, where she loved connecting with customers.

Sula was known for her gentle spirit, writing poems, short stories, and a book about her father, titled “Where the Eagles Fly,” published in 2014. In 1998, she moved to Idyllwild, California, serving as a counselor and caretaker in a Christian ministry. After seven years, she retired to her Cynthia and Bill’s home in Arizona City, Arizona, where she spent the last 21 years writing, reading, and enjoying her family and church.