Jean R. Johnson

She was born to the late Walter and Berry Ralph, June 23, 1929, in Buffalo, NY. Jean graduated from New Rochelle High School and received a BA in Mathematics from Cornell University.

She married John G. Johnson. John’s career took the family to Canada, Venezuela, Mexico, and England. Three of Jean’s children were born overseas. While living in Mexico, John’s sister and brother-in-law died unexpectedly, and Jean and John raised their five children, enlarging the family substantially.

Jean was devoted to her family, caring for nine children and supporting her husband’s career. She had many interests, foremost among them was a great love of dogs. She bred championship English Labradors, which she started with a sire and damme that were imported from England. In the early days of her marriage she enjoyed playing bridge with her husband and their friends. She also enjoyed horseback riding and rode well into her later years. She played tennis enthusiastically and was delighted to have won a Mixed Doubles social tournament at the Madison Beach Club.

Jean was predeceased by her husband John, and her daughter Catherine. She is survived by children: Thomas W. Johnson (Anna) of Westminster, MD, Michael Wissenbach (Pam) of McCall, ID, Thomas Wissenbach (Pam) of Clinton, CT, Charles Johnson (Helga) of Stanfordville, NY, Robert Johnson of Old Saybrook, CT, Daniel Wissenbach of Poulsbo, WA, Susan Estabrook (Phillip) of Madison, CT, and Ann Whalen (Sean) of Reading, MA; her brother Pierson Ralph of Athens, Texas, numerous nieces and nephews, several grandchildren and great grandchildren, and family friend TJ Hawkes.

Jean enjoyed music and dance throughout her life. Her “walker-dancing” will be remembered by all who witnessed it.

The family would like to thank the staff at Essex Meadows Health Care Center who took great care of Jean in the last years and final months of her life. A celebration of Jean’s life will be held at a later date.