From left to right: Erinn Walker, Paula Rainey Johnson, Kristen Palme
The Junior League of San Antonio is proud to announce that Paula Rainey Johnson has been named our Volunteer Extraordinaire for 2024- 2025. This esteemed recognition celebrates Paula’s unwavering dedication, exceptional service, and profound impact on our community.
A native of San Antonio, Paula grew up in a loving family of five. Her father, a military veteran, became a successful contractor, while her mother, an Army brat, was an active member of many civic organizations. Paula attended Alamo Heights ISD and furthered her education at Stephens College and The University of Texas at Austin, where she held leadership positions and excelled on the tennis court.
After graduating, Paula married Clyde Johnson, III, worked as a teacher for three years, and raised their two children, Clyde IV and Rainey. She served on various school PTOs and has collaborated with her husband to enhance the Alamo Heights ISD’s athletic programs, including currently serving on the Bond Community Council for AHISD.
At age 26, Paula became a member of the Junior League of San Antonio (JLSA) and immersed herself in league activities, fundraising, and community service during her 15 active years. Notably, she served as Treasurer for the Flavors Cookbook project, where her organizational skills were instrumental in its success. Through the League, Paula discovered her passion for fundraising, managing numerous JLSA events with exceptional talent.
In 1990-91, Paula served as President of JLSA. During her presidency, she and her husband, Clyde Johnson, President of the Downtown San Antonio Rotary Club, forged a partnership with Rotary to host their meetings and offices at The Bright Shawl. This collaboration not only secured the future of the League’s headquarters but also funded a significant expansion of the main dining area, benefiting both organizations.
Outside the League, inspired by her daughter-in-law Kim’s mother’s battle with Stage 4 ovarian cancer, Paula mobilized a team to support ovarian cancer research. The event, “Teal Lunch for Life,” raised over $5 million over ten years, partnering with M.D. Anderson’s “Conversation with a Living Legend” series to advance cancer research and patient care programs.
Paula is also active in Fiesta. She is the wife of a former King Antonio and mother to a recent King Antonio of the Texas Cavaliers. Her daughter was also the Queen of the Order of the Alamo.
“We are thrilled to honor Paula Rainey Johnson as our Volunteer Extraordinaire,” said Kristen Palme, President 2024-2025 of The Junior League of San Antonio, “Her unwavering commitment to important causes such as Ovarian Cancer and tireless efforts at Alamo Heights ISD have made a lasting impact on the community we serve. We are deeply grateful for her contributions to JLSA and her continued involvement in meeting the needs of San Antonio.”
