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Roseanna Johnston Obituary

Johnston, Roseanna

Roseanna Lee (Kouf) Johnston, 1937-2013, went to be with her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on September 5th, 2013, peacefully in her home, surrounded by the love of family and friends. She was born in Ithaca, NY on June 24th, 1937. As the director of Roseanna's School of Dance and Music in Ithaca and later in Newfield, she taught performing arts for 60 years and touched the hearts of many. In later years she was well-known for her distribution of hug coupons to everyone she met. She is survived by her husband, William H. Johnston; son, Kearney and his wife Annie; daughter, Georgetta (Gigi) Johnston; grandchildren, Dustin, Alex, and Jessica; and sister, Sandra June (Kouf) Lagasse. A celebration of her life will be held on Saturday, September 14th, at 11:30 a.m. at the 1st Assembly of God Church at 197 Bostwick Road, Ithaca, NY 14850. Doors open at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, donations will be accepted at Ithaca New Life Victory Center Church (P.O. Box 4921, Ithaca, NY 14852) or Hospicare of Ithaca. Bangs Funeral Home will be assisting the family.

Published by Ithaca Journal on Sep. 10, 2013.
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Many thanks and to Bill and Roseanna. The early days (1960) with Bill, Roseanna, me, Jim Connors, Gary Countryman and Cliff Campbell in Genoa, NY.

Skip Davis

July 21, 2014

Skip Davis

July 21, 2014

I have been posting pictures of the Veterans Day Parade for many years now and Roseanna has always been part of that procession. I did not know of her passing and was sad that was will dance no more here on Earth, but I am sure she is cutting the rug in heaven and she left a loyal and inspired retinue of students. My best to the Johnston family.

Franklin Crawford

November 11, 2013

I'm going to miss her and her hugs.

Nicholas Tuttle

September 19, 2013

Bill, Kearney and Gigi- I am so sorry for your loss. Roseanna was a great person. I can remember going to the barn for baton lessons, and still remember them everyday that I drive by. She will truly be missed. May God Bless you all in this difficult time.

Gisele (Gigi) Fields

September 16, 2013

Roseanna was a wonderful person. She was always thinking of others and helping many. My thoughts and prayers go out to all who knew her. She will be truly missed.
Donna Brown

September 15, 2013

Roseanna was the nicest person I was able to meet in the "baton world". I will always remember her for her "hug coupons" that I still, to this day have. I will always miss you! <3 With Love: 2013 Juvenile Miss Majorette of New York Deayza-Marie Peebles

Deayza-Marie Peebles

September 15, 2013

Diane Teeter-Silva

September 14, 2013

To Bil,Kearney,and GiGi,
We are so sorry for your loss of a great women. She had the heart and the patience of very strong person. She done wonders with the help of Bill with alot of kids. She will be greatly missed by everyone she hand touched with her kindness & love.

Don & Janice (daughters- Jamie & Deanna) DeLong

September 14, 2013

So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.God bless you.

Bernice and McKayla Ross

September 14, 2013

Roseanna helped and guided more children in Newfield than anyone else I know. Her generosity and patience were an inspiration. My family is grateful for her friendship (and hugs) over the years and we will miss her.

Linda Poppleton

September 13, 2013

Our hearts go out to Bill and the family. Our hearts hang heavy for the loss of this wonderful woman with a lot of enthusiam and energy to put anyone into a smiley disposition. She was a great singing teacher for our 8 year old daughter, Miranda, and will be very much missed. Peace be with you through this mournful time.

Love - Richard, Lori, Miranda, and Nicole Langendoerfer

September 13, 2013

Roseanna - you will be missed. God Bless you... My Kids all grown up now - took Dance with Roseanna many years ago. We met so many good people through her. Roseanna was so giving and had such a passion for teaching Kids dance and performance.

Karena Krauss

September 13, 2013

Like many others, Roseanna and Bill have greatly touched my life and had a lasting impact. They taught me and my siblings coordination, rhythm, and a love for music. They put on Halloween parties, shepherded us to competitions when parents were unavailable, and always encouraged. Their door was always open, to everyone. Without them, I would be the silly fool on the dance floor, dancing her heart out, but awful.

It's unfortunate that we often don't realize the role people have played in our life until they've left us. Where ever you are, thank you Roseanna for being the wonderful, patient and caring person you have always been. And Bill, thank you. My thoughts and love are with you.

Erin Smith

September 13, 2013

Kearney, I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your mother. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Lisa Pelto Thurston

Lisa Pelto Thurston

September 12, 2013

I first met Roseanna through my children going to school in Newfield with hers. She taught an adult exercise/dance class which I attended and loved. My kids and I marched with her in many parardes and enjoyed every minute. She was a wonderful person, teacher and mother. She will be missed by so many. My children are now grown with children of their own and she still always took the time to stop and chat with me whenever I saw her. Love and prayers to the family.

Lillian Slade

September 12, 2013

I cannot say enough to describe the impact that Roseanna and Bill have had on the lives of thousands of families and children in Tompkins County. She got me off the bus, fed me, taught me about music tirelessly and above all told me that I was good at whatever I did. She gave me responsibility and trusted me to teach the smaller children- in lieu of payment when times were tough for my mother.
The generosity and sacrifice that Roseanna possessed is what I will always hold in my memory of her. Her legacy lives in the light she instilled as belief in the abilities of children.

I'm sorry I didn't say these things when I had the chance.

Bethani Pallace

September 12, 2013

sorry gigi for you loss. tammy morrell-lisk and from my mom a former student of hers.

Tammy Lisk

September 11, 2013

I just wanted to add my final and most wonderful experience with Roseanna and all of our baton and dance was when we were invited to entertain at the World's Fair in New York City. What a fabulous experience that was. Also, when I won so many competitions because of Roseanna's love and dedication to so many young people. She is truly an angel and please know how many people loved her more than you will ever know. Much love and aloha!

Debbie Carlisle-Simpson

September 11, 2013

Bill and Family, I have so many wonderful memories of Roseanna and all of you. Kearney and Gigi when they were so little. Everyone was there (all of our families) when we went to parades. I loved going to the State Fair. How blessed was I to perform at Scofield Stadium with all the older girls (I was 11 I think...me and Chris Myers were the youngest). Learning baton and dance in the studio. Loved it. Learned tap dance and remember the song and tap dance "Singing in the Rain" with our parasols. So many fond, fond memories...can't even begin to say how much love Roseanna gave to me and all of us. All my love and prayers to everyone!

Debbie Carlisle-Simpson

September 11, 2013

Dear Bill, Gigi, and Kearny, So sorry to hear of your loss she was a wonderful person

Kriss Tagliavento

September 11, 2013

Roseanna you will be missed. Had you for my dance teacher for many years. A good family friend. Remember marching in parades, twillering my baton in competition. You were a wonderful teacher and friend. Very sorry Sandy for your loss. Miss you. Love Patti Morgan Giordano

September 11, 2013

Roseanna was a wonderful person, a fantastic mom (to all of us that were her adopted children - as well as to her own kids too). Always smiling - always a kind word and a hug. Gone from this earth, but will never be forgotten. She taught so much more to me than just dance, baton, piano, and cheering. She is definitely missed by many. I will care her memory always. God Bless, Bill, Kearney, Gigi and family. Hugs to you all!

Debra (Henderson) Meeker

September 11, 2013

This is a great loss to the Ithaca community. Roseanne was my 1st dance teacher (and I'm over 50!). Hugs and prayers to her family.

September 11, 2013

I'm sorry for the loss of RoseAnna. I was glad to met her, she was a wonderful Lady that loved her family & Church Family. She will be missed. God Bless You All!

Rosie Moore

September 11, 2013

So sorry for your loss. Roseanna taught me baton as a child in that big red barn:) Those days were so much fun and I remember her coming into the salon for Judy to do her hair and passing out those hug coupons. She will be missed but we have gained an Angel.

April Salemme-Hopkins

September 11, 2013

Dear Bill, Gigi and Kearny, so sorry for your loss,so many memories, God bless you all stay strong in faith and know we have an Angel up in heaven watching over us. hug coupons to you. your in my thoughts and prayers

Annie Iacovelli-Bowlsby

September 11, 2013

I know Scott and She will be playing music together once again. I will miss her but I know they are together with our Heavenly Father. God Bless all of you.

Theresa Barrick

September 11, 2013

Roseanne was an amazing person and will be missed. I always loved seeing your smiling face at all the competition over the years that I twirled. I will miss all of your hugs, smiles, and goodies that you always brought with you. You will be missed a lot by everyone..

Katie

September 10, 2013

Not a competition passed without a hug coupon and kind words from roseanna. She will be greatly missed

sue rey

September 10, 2013

I have many fond memories of Roseanna and her family as we lived below the "Big Red Barn". I grew up hearing the music and wondering what it was all about. My sister, I and our neighbors used to play in the field and have many fun memories of that. May God Bless You Roseanna and Family. Newfield will never be the same. Rest In Peace.

September 10, 2013

I am very sad to hear this. Roseanna was a very special soul who I've held in my heart since the first day I auditioned for her with a breakdance routine. She was always kind and encouraged me and many others to spread our wings as dancers and performers and we became better people for it. I'll never for get her or Bill and my thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Hugs

Tami Tabone

September 10, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. What a wonderful person....always quick with a smile and a hug. She touched the lives of many of us in Newfield and she will be truly missed. Her love and dedication to so many in our community was something very unique and special. May her family find comfort in their other family members, friends and the fond memories of an amazing woman!

Jon Armstrong

September 10, 2013

rosie u will be missed and we all luv u

September 10, 2013

I am truly deeply sorry for your loss. Roseanna was a big part of my childhood and someone we all looked up too as children. She will always be remembered and greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with you.
Jodie Washington

September 10, 2013

We have lost a wonderful lady. My memories go back to the 1960's and the hard work Roseanna and Bill did for getting us to learn our routines and get us to competitions and parades. Roseanna taught us how to be a lady with manners and consideration for others. I feel privileged to have spent years of my childhood at the dance school in Ithaca

Charlotte Riedel Miller

September 10, 2013

I am sorry for Roseanna passing. She will be missed at competitions. Always looked forward to seeing her and her hug cards. It won't be the same without her. My prayers to you and your family.

Gloria VanDeMortel

September 10, 2013

Sorry for your loss Bill, Kerney, and Gigi.
She was the greatest woman I have ever gotten the pleasure of knowing, and an extension of my family!!! Roseanna will be missed, but never forgotten!

Jennifer McDowell (Sisson)

September 10, 2013

Sending love & prayers to your family. I have so many wonderful memories of Roseanna from when I was very young attending her dance school. She was an amazing lady!

Michelle Loveless (Casterline)

September 10, 2013

Roseanna was a special person and will be missed. Sending sympathy and healing prayers to her family,

Sherry Consalvi

September 10, 2013

Dear Bill and family: So sorry to hear of Roseanna's passing. You both have served your community and are loved by many. Prayers of comfort and peace to you all.

Glenn & Cindy Casterline

September 10, 2013

Johnston Family,
So sorry for your loss. She will surely be your guiding angel. I took exercise classes with her many years ago. I always admired your Mom. She will be missed. It brought me to tears when you marched by us on Saturday at Old Home Days in the parade. She would have been proud! Blessings to you all!

Elaine Hulse

September 10, 2013

Bill, I am sorry to hear about Roseanna's passing.

Hank Zajd

September 10, 2013

Kelly Kemp McCann

September 10, 2013

She was a very special person. She will be missed. My thoughts and prayer are with you all.

Kelly Kemp McCann

September 10, 2013

Dear Bill and Family,
Although I am sorry to hear that Roseanna has passed on, I am confident that she is singing and dancing with the King of Kings. May God comfort you and embrace you during this troubling time of loss.

Carrie Natale

September 10, 2013

I am so sorry for your loss. My thoughts and prayers to you all.

Karen Rider

September 10, 2013

Bill, Gigi and Kearney
We were so sorry to hear of the passing of our friend and instructor for many! Our prayers go out to you and your families!

Marilyn and Charles Cook

September 10, 2013

Roseanna was such a great lady; always smiling and always kind. She was my baton teacher when I was young and then taught my daughter as she was growing up. She put on superb dance shows when I was young and won many accolades for music, dance and baton. What a great loss for her family and her many, many students.

Ruth Iacovelli - Topley

September 10, 2013

To the entire Johnston family, I am so very sorry to hear of Roseanna's passing. She was such a large part our lives growing up. My sister and I spent many hours at the red barn marching and playing the drums. She has touched the lives of so many. May god bless you all in this time of sorrow.

Jerry Tucker

September 10, 2013

dear bill gigi and Kearny we are sorry to hear about Roseanna passing she was a good person to talk to

sheryl crance

September 10, 2013

May the KINg of Glory Bless you all as you remember her LOVE for the LORD.

Pastor Sonya Hicks

September 10, 2013

At the age of 3 she was my first dance and baton teacher. And she was in the Big Red Barn at the entrance of Jim Rays Trailer Park. And then when I marched with the ThunderBolts we competed against her Roseanna's Robilers. I always thought that she would live forever. She will be missed.

Katherine Washington Pompey

September 10, 2013

I am going to miss her. She made a huge difference in my life.

Douglas Churcher

September 10, 2013

Roseanne will always be in my heart. she was and still is a great lady, she will live on in many peoples memories. My love to you Bill and your family. Roseanne tough me a lot but most of all she tough me not to be afraid to go for what you want, Love And miss you Roseanne.

Randi Darling- Hamilton

September 10, 2013

Gigi - I'm so sorry to hear of the passing of your mother. You're in my thoughts.

Donna Payne Redsicker

September 10, 2013

Roseanna was a wonderful and kind lady. She taught me Tap dancing how to twirl the baton, hoop and fire baton. Must important she taught me to be a good person and to enjoy life. We went to many, many compeitions and won so many medals and trophy's. Bill, Kearny and Gigi was always there helping out. Many wonderful memories of coming to the barn and twirling and dancing. Now Roseanna will be "Dancing with the Stars". R.I.P my friend. My prayers and thoughts are with Bill, Kerney and Gigi.

Dawn Muckey-Rantanen

September 10, 2013

Rosie, I will dearly miss you. You meant to much to so many. My whole family is thinking of and praying for your whole family. Bill, you need anything, please call us.

Ellen & Dana Sisson

September 10, 2013

Heaven gained a special angel . Mrs. Johnston was a wonderful woman that glowed with love and kindness . prayers for her family

lori bennett

September 10, 2013

Dear Bill, Gigi and Kearny,
We are so very sorry to read about Roseanna. She was always one of our favorites and will be truly missed. There were so many good times we shared and these thoughts will always be fond memories. Our performing arts world has lost a true treasure. Although we can't be there in person, our thoughts and prayers will.
Bernie & Esther

September 10, 2013

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you all during this difficult time. We loved your mother very much. My dad now has another special friend in heaven.

Norfe Pirro

September 10, 2013

So sorry for your lose, God has a new Angel with him!!!

Lanny&Dolley Clark

September 10, 2013

You were such an inspiration to my son Dylan . He enjoyed coming to your home for guitar lessons ! You will be missed by so Many R.I.P

Debbie Owens

September 10, 2013

Dear Bill,Kearney and Gigi and Family my Prayers are for all of you. Roseanna will be remembered for her Love,Kindness and Skills. She taught Music,Dance,Baton and Love to so many, many people and their families. She was always kind and gracious. She will be missed.

Elizabeth [Betty] Collins

September 10, 2013

I am so sad to read about my favorite dancing teacher's passing. She and you, Bill, have taught me so much while I was a student and later a helper. Those years are the fondest memories I have of living in Ithaca. I will always be indebted to you. I'll miss her....a lot.

Treska Militti ( Sitch)

September 10, 2013

So sorry to here about your loss. She was a great lady, and we had lots of fun working on the shows at the Strand.

September 10, 2013

I think it was 1964, my mother took me to Roseanna's with a brand new pair of tap shoes. I would tap, practice being a color guard, and later take drum lessons from Bill. That began a life time love of both music and dance. The number lives she touched can be seen in that smile she always had. You will forever be in our hearts? My GOD grant your family some peace in your time of sorrow.

Franklin Henry Jr

September 10, 2013

Kearney:
So sorry to read of your mom's passing. You now have a special guardian angel looking out for you.
Prayers to you and your family in this time of loss. God Bless you all

Melinda Schlick

September 10, 2013

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

robert barrick

September 10, 2013

Rosie will never be forgotten, I have many memories of the good times we shared when I was taking lessons from her. She inspired me to be positive about things. RIP Rosie..
It's a difficult time for the family, I know, but she is in a better place. Prayers and thoughts go to each of you.

Marsha Calhoun

September 10, 2013

Dear Bill and Gigi and the rest of your family, We are so sorry to read of Rosie's death... but grateful to be a couple of the many, many lives touched by her grace, kindness and generous heart. Praying for you to experience comfort and strength at this time, and peace beyond understanding. And looking forward to dancing with her on the streets of gold with Jesus on the other side. Blessings and love to you,

Mary Ellen & Greg Lourey

September 9, 2013

I am so saddened by the loss of Roseanna! Roseanna taught me baton and dance for some time and she taught my mother for years before me. I remember always seeing her in the parades and you could see how much she loved it. Her smile was always shining.
Your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to all of you during this difficult time.

Cindy (Brown) Walker

September 7, 2013

Bill, Kearney & Gigi,
How deeply saddened I was to learn of Roseanna's passing. I can only imagine her dancing into eternity, 5, 6, 7, 8!

Dawn Westmiller-O'Dell

September 6, 2013

Bill and Family I'm sorry for your lose at this time .. you will be in my thoughts and prayers.

Katrina Blair

September 6, 2013

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