Ila Ruth Johnson

Ila Ruth Johnson was born in 1933 in Denver, Colo., to Colonel Ted Sess and Dorothy Sess.

After her early years of moving around the country from Fort Collins to Detroit and elsewhere as an army brat, she spent her formative years in Colorado and graduated from Wheatridge High. Later, Ila moved with her parents and loving brother, Tom, to South Pasadena, Calif., where she studied and acted in many leading roles at the prestigious Pasadena Playhouse.

The family moved north to San Mateo, Calif., and Ila joined the Hillbarn Theater, acting and directing. Later she performed with the Claypiper - a melodrama theatre company in Drytown, Calif. Ultimately, she earned her teaching credential from San Francisco State University.

On April 22, 1961, Ila married Duke George Johnson. They lived in Oakland, then Davis, and eventually settled in Palo Alto, where they lived for 30 years and raised their four children.

Ila was an exceptionally creative and committed mother who continued her interest in the arts through her involvement in the Palo Alto Children's Theatre, where all four of her children performed. Ila continued her work with children and art, teaching fourth through sixth grades in Niles and Fremont, Calif., for 15 years. She directed school plays and emphasized art instruction.

In 1999, she moved to San Luis Obispo, an adopted hometown she loved more than any other. In San Luis, she developed many treasured friendships and participated in numerous local activities including the Newcomer's Club, her beloved bridge group, book club, quilting group, and volunteer work in public schools. She also thoroughly enjoyed the local performing arts,

especially the San Luis Obispo Little Theater, where she volunteered.

Ila will not only be remembered as a devoted mother and grandmother, but also as an independent, outspoken, creative, intelligent and compassionate woman. Her love for children and animals defined her. Her generous and loving spirit, loyal friendship, and her irreverent, biting sense of humor will be deeply missed.

She is survived by her husband of 39 years and best friend of 50 years, Duke G. Johnson; children Sarah Mages, Ian Johnson, Nicholas Johnson and Carey Johnson; grandchildren Declan Mages, Liam Mages, Duke J. Johnson and Emma Johnson; and her faithful companion, "Rosie."

Her ashes will be scattered in the Trinity Alps, where she spent many wonderful summers with her children.

There will be a celebration of Ila's life from 2 to 6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 12, 2008, at Ila's home, with a remembrance at 3 p.m. Call Carey at ( 415) 867-2725 for details.

In memory of Ila, please send contributions to any of the following organizations: KCBX Public Radio, 4100 Vachell Lane, San Luis Obispo, CA 93401; World Vision, Ila R. Johnson Memorial code 105429224, P.O. Box 9716, Federal Way, WA 98063-9716; World Wildlife Fund, 1250 Twenty-Fourth Street, N.W., P.O. Box 97180, Washington DC, 20090-7180; Assistance League of SLO County, P.O. Box 14904, San Luis Obispo CA 93406; or San Luis Obispo Little Theater, P.O. Box 122, San Luis Obispo, CA 93406.