Doris Johnson

7/27/1933 - 1/14/2026

Old Lyme - Doris passed away peacefully Jan. 14, 2026, at the age of 92. She was born and raised in Gales Ferry, the daughter of Charles Alton and Florence Gray Chapman.

She joined the Gales Ferry Methodist Church, graduated from Robert E. Fitch High School, Class of 1951, and attended Willimantic State Teachers College. She was also a member of

the Daughters of the American Revolution. Doris's life was a rich tapestry woven from professional achievement, faith, community service, artistic passion and traveling.

She was a respected figure at Old Lyme Town Hall for nearly 37 years, serving in the First Selectman's and the finance office, as well as on the Lyme's Senior Center Board of Directors.

Doris was a proud member of the National Grange of Patrons of Husbandry for 75 years, a rare and extraordinary commitment that speaks to her lifelong dedication to rural values, community, and service.

As president of the Duck River Garden Club, she used her love of gardening to create something lasting and joyful - the club's now-signature annual plant sale, a beloved tradition that continues to flourish thanks to her leadership and vision. Doris had an eye for beauty and a love of design, with hobbies that showed her passion for creativity. She was a "maker" of many crafts, from paper art to quilting and sewing to collecting dolls. She was also a Girl Scout Leader. For 30 years, she was a member of the Thames River Quilters and Clamshell Quilt Clubs.

With deep love and admiration, we remember Doris who was married to Theodore Johnson for 69 years. She was predeceased by her parents; and sisters, Lois Hutchins and Betty Chapman. She is survived by her sister Charlene Huhtala; son Wayne Johnson and Leigh Leighton of Old Lyme; daughters, Wendy and husband Koenraad Lecot of Costa Mesa, Calif., and Holly Johnson of Old Lyme; as well as her grandchildren: Devon Johnson, Scott Johnson, Derek and wife Katie Lecot, and Ingrid Lecot and husband Chad Moore.

A memorial service for Doris will be held at 11:30 a.m. Jan. 17, at Thomas L. Neilan & Sons Funeral Home, 48 Grand Street, Niantic. Interment will follow at the Duck River Cemetery in Old Lyme. You can share condolences and memories of Doris in the guestbook at www.neilanfuneralhome.com/obituaries. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you honor her memory by supporting a local garden or hobby club or making something with your hands.