Gail Virginia Johnson

Portland - Gail Virginia (Guild) Johnson was taken away from her beloved family and friends unexpectedly on Friday, June 12, 2009, at the age 59. Gail was born in Middletown, to Warren and Virginia "Ginny" Guild.

She was the loving wife of Ted Johnson for the past 39 years.

She is survived by a daughter, Erika Johnson and her significant other, Harry Cooper, and his son, Eric. She is also survived by her son, Kristof Johnson and his wife, Emily, and her two most precious treasures, her two granddaughters, Libby and Gracie. She is survived by her siblings, Elwin Guild and his wife, Joan Geissman, Roger and Elaine Guild, Roy and Joann Guild, and her beloved sister, Bonnie (Guild) Jackson. She leaves behind 11 nieces and nephews. She is also survived by her aunt, Angellina Young and family.

Gail's family is particularly grateful to Pat Swartz for the special bond they shared.

Gail will be joining both her beloved parents and two nephews in eternal peace.

Gail enjoyed many things in life, especially loved spending time in the sanctuary of her gardens. She was a avid collector of antiques and jewelry. She and her best friend Pat were always able to find a bargain at every tag sale and flea market. She loved vacationing in Arizona and visiting anywhere else that had public gardens, including Elizabeth Park in West Hartford.

Donations may be made in Gail's memory to the Rose Gardens at Elizabeth Park, www.elizabethpark.com, or at Magic Wings Butterfly Conservatory, 281 Greenfield Road, South Deerfield MA 01373, Attention: Kathy Miller. You may also remember Gail by planting a flower in your garden.

Calling hours will be from 4 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, June 17, at the Portland Memorial Funeral Home, 231 Main St., Portland. A funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Thursday, June 18, at the First Congregational Church of Portland, 554 Main St., Portland. The Rev. Jane Hawken will officiate. Interment will at 1 p.m. on Monday, June 22, at Center Cemetery in Portland.