Jane T. Johnson

1928 - 2017

Jane Frances Turner Johnson of Stow, beloved wife of 68 years to Gordon Clifford Johnson, passed away peacefully on January 12, 2017, in Canaan, CT, with her husband and family members at her side. Loving mother to Kristen (Bill) Brandfass of PA, Kimberley (Ken Silva) Johnson of CO, Meredith (Fred) Craven of VT, Eric (Kim) Johnson of MA, Marjorie (Mike Spencer) Johnson of MA, Caroline (Erik) Christensen of CT, and loving mother-in-law to Adrian Hise of CO, and Bruce Rhodes of FL; adored 'Ducky' to many grandchildren - Jesse and Becky Brandfass, Matthew and Katie Hise, Kajsa, Taylor, and Eric Craven, Christopher and Alex Johnson, Cameron and Ben Rhodes, Andrew, Ava, and Beth Christensen; and, the sweetest great-grandmother to Matthew, Kaleb, Liam, Audrey, Zeke, Avery, Wesley, and Elaina, she will be dearly missed but always present in joyous spirit. Born on May 24, 1928, in Providence, R.I., to Walter Raymond and Marjorie Boss Turner, Jane was preceded in death by her parents and cherished younger sister, Dorothy Clarke of Jamestown, R.I., her dearest friend and fellow world adventurer. As co-founder of The Community School in Maynard, Jane touched the hearts and minds of countless pre-schoolers. In her adult life, she passionately advocated for peace on earth, environmental responsibility, and civil rights for all. Jane will be affectionately remembered for her kindness, curiosity, and optimism, but, most especially, for her inner glow that lit up every room she ever entered. Love, Peace, and eternal Gratitude to one remarkable woman whose favorite quote was 'Well behaved women seldom make history'! All who were moved by Jane's generous spirit are invited to attend a celebration of life on Saturday, February 4, 11a.m., at the United Church of Christ in Boxborough, MA, followed by a reception at the church. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made in Jane's name to The Community School in Maynard, MA.