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Hurst Funeral Home, Inc.

Greenville, Michigan 48838
Phone: (616) 754-6616
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Fax: (616) 754-3991
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Web Site: http://www.hurstfuneralhome.com

Jean Ann Johnson Click for Condolences      Printable Version
1947 - 2009

Jean Ann Johnson Jean Ann Johnson age 61 of Stanton went to be with her Lord on March 25, 2009 at the home of her son in Houma, Louisiana. She was born in Greenville MI on May 26, 1957 the daughter of Emerald and Doris Perry and was a graduate of Greenville High School with the class of 1965. She also graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in education and music. She was a member of Nevins Lake Church and was attending Mulberry Baptist Church in Houma Louisiana. She was a choir leader for several churches in Lakeview, Greenville and Nevins Lake and volunteered with her music at senior organizations. She taught in public schools and for 25 years was employed by Head Start and 8 CAP as disability coordinator. She was also a consultant and recently retired from Catholic Social Services. Jean also was an author of two books.

Jean knew and loved her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and had tremendous faith in his second coming. She was a devoted advocate of children and anyone with needs. She had a firm belief in principles and recognized that the right choice and difficult decisions were often one in the same. Jean had a deep love for all of Gods creations. She was happiest in nature, loved her pets, and spent many hours tending to her flowers. She will be missed by many.

She married Max Johnson on August 9 1968. He survives along with her children; Lori and Daniel Koster of Edmore and Kevin and Aimee Johnson of Houma Louisiana, her grandchildren, Liane and Amanda Koster and Emerald, Evan and Elle Johnson, her sister Ellen and Geoff Johnson of East Grand Rapids, nephews Tim Reilly and Scott and Jennifer Reilly, sister in law Beverly Perry, brothers-in-law, Larry and Karen Johnson of Greenville, Gary and Janice Johnson of Central Lake and Ronald Johnson of Florida and Steve and Lorraine Houghton of Six Lakes.

Her brother Earl Perry and sister-in-law Evonne Houghton preceded her in death.

Funeral services will be held on Wednesday April 1, 2009 at 1 PM from Hurst Funeral Home with Rev. Bob Goodenough officiating. Burial will be in Riverside Cemetery, Langston. Visitation will be held on Tuesday from 5 to 8 PM at the funeral home.

Memorial contributions may be given to the Belding Library.


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There are currently 40 condolences.


JoAn Neitzel (Buck)
Friday April 10, 2009 at 7:22 PM

Just a note to Jean's family. I was also one of Jean's classmates at the West End school. And I also had the wonderful opportunity to work with Jean at the Eight Cap office at Turk Lake until my retirement 4 yrs ago. She was such and inspiration to everyone she came into contact with. Jean and I would remind each other of those good ole days at the West End country school and the old fashion Christmas programs that was presented. The old wooden dock would be brought in from the wood shed on the grounds and the wire that held the curtains that would be drawn between each skit was just a few of the things we loved to talk about. It will truly be a grand reunion when we all meet again in the heaven's above...Blessings on each one of you.... JoAn Neitzel (Buck)
 
Sally (Bloss) Morais
Tuesday April 7, 2009 at 12:14 PM

It was such a shock to learn of Jean's death. I've only seen her a few times as an adult but knew her at West End School. She was a grade behind me but the girls in our two grades were close and had a lot of fun together. When I've seen Jean in recent years she was always so happy and positive. When Pam (Wilcox), Jean and I went to Mr. Campbell's anniversary a few years ago we had great fun talking about old times and catching up. There wasn't a quiet moment while we were together. She was much too young to leave this earth but I'm sure she's flitting around heaven, singing and smiling. My sympathies to all of her family.
 
Ruth Chvojicek
Friday April 3, 2009 at 2:57 PM

To Jean's beloved family, My deepest sympathy and prayers go out to you - that you may find peace in the fact that Jean is now singing in God's choir in Heaven. I worked with Jean for several years through CESA 5. She was always positive, accepting, and loving - no matter what. She was a gift to many. Her smiling face looks at me everyday from a photo on my desk - she will be missed my many. Ruth
 
Pam Rinckey (Wilcox)
Friday April 3, 2009 at 2:48 PM

Jean and I were friends during our elementary grades at West End School in Crystal. I'll always remember the great times we had playing out back in the small barn they had at their home on Colby Rd. We spent many hours together giggling and just being obnoxius little girls. I was lucky enough to make contact with Jean a couple of summers ago when we went to our former teacher's 50th wedding anniversay (Mr. Campbell). It was so good to reconnect. Jean had stayed in touch with my parents (Virgil & Tess Wilcox) and they so appreciated her attention. I'm so sorry we didn't have more time to get together and talk about old times. She will be missed. In friendship... Pam Rinckey
 
Chad & Josephine Safranski
Wednesday April 1, 2009 at 9:25 PM

We are thinking of you and praying for your family during this difficult time. May God bless you and grant you peace. Love-Chad Josephine & Evelyn
 
Heather Dahl
Wednesday April 1, 2009 at 7:18 PM

Jean was so dear to me and everyone she knew. She brought so much joy to this life and everytime I saw her she brought a smile to my face. I am glad the Lord gave us the time he did to get to share with her and laugh. I have loved her from the moment I met her and Max at the Bus station in New Orleans. I will never forget that day...it was special. Now I know why. God gives us gifts and we never know how he works, but Jean was an inspiration and a mentor to me as a teacher, mother and friend. I love you Jean and I know that I will see you again in Heaven some day. May God be with your family to help them know that you are not here in body, but your spirit will always live on in all of us, for as long as we live!
 
Lisa Lund
Wednesday April 1, 2009 at 4:25 PM

I just learned of Jean's passing this morning and was so taken aback. The thing I remember most about Jean was the light that shone from within her, she was such a positive person and advocate. It always made me feel special just to be in her company or to hear her friendly, beautiful voice.
 
Dr. William and Marcia Seiter
Wednesday April 1, 2009 at 3:16 PM

Dear Max and family. We are so sorry to hear about Jean.Kevin and Lori were in the Central Montcalm schools with our children. Allen and Mary also send their condolences to your family.WE will keep you all in our prayers.
 
deVonne and Edward Barron; Houma, LA
Wednesday April 1, 2009 at 1:24 PM

To Max, Lori, Kevin, and Aimee. Ed and I send our deepest condolences during this very difficult time. It seems Jean has touched so many lives in so many ways. Her gentle touch and calming demeanor is what I truly loved about Jean. There were so many times when the family would get together and the kids are running around chaotically, I would see Jean sitting so very patiently and calm with a huge smile on her face. I appreciated every talk we had and every moment we shared because I know I was blessed to have been in the company of such a beautiful person. We will miss her greatly. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
 
Shirley Use'
Wednesday April 1, 2009 at 8:36 AM

Jean was a person who touched all our lives here in Houma, LA. She had a positive impact on everyone she met. She loved life and seemed to live it to the fullest. We share the love of our grandchildren, Emmy, Evan and Elle. She and Max traveled many miles to make sure that their family in Houma knew them well. She was so loved by her family and all her friends here. I take comfort in the fact that she was able to meet and hold and love her three grandchildren here. I hope to be able to tell them someday how much she loved them. She was God's blessing to my daughter, Aimee, after her daughter Elle was born. They were always there to help her out with her three children while Kevin was out of the country. We know that she is at home with Jesus because that is what she believed and lived every day of her life. I will miss her terribly. The only thing that we can do here in Houma is to honor her memory and continue loving Kevin and Max and Lori. She will be remembered as a wonderful, christian lady and will be missed.
 
Tim Reilly
Tuesday March 31, 2009 at 4:40 PM

My deepest sympathy to all of the family and friends that were so touched by Aunt Jean in her days with us. Her cheerfulness, energy, optimistic outlook and faith were as intense as they were deep rooted in her personality and rubbed off on everyone around her. We are all better people for having had her in our lives. She will be remembered well and often, and missed greatly.
 
Ellen Johnson
Tuesday March 31, 2009 at 12:10 PM

I am Jean's sister, Ellen. There are so many stories to tell others that would be good to know about Jean. The best I can do is provide some of the details no one else would know. For example, when Jean was small, Dad would sweep her up in his arms and hold her high and say 'How's my little Susie-Q!' That was such a common experience to watch for me as a little girl of 6 or 7 years old that when I'd talk to her or see her even as an adult, I would often say "High Susie!!" No one probably understood why that name stuck, but it was common to me and I always enjoyed using that name, often, when I talked to her. It reminded me of how Dad loved his little girl and how he would laugh when he did it! I remember, well, our early years in Crystal when each Sunday morning I would get Jean up and I would fix a quick breakfast so we could get picked up, early, by the bus of the Crystal Church of God for early church. I remember telling her we had to be quiet since everyone else was sleeping and I worried if we made too much noise, we would wake up the house. She was pretty young and didn't always understand that, but it seemed to work and off we would go to church together! I can still see her as a little 6 or 7 year old walking on Colby Road in Crystal to Westend School. She and her school friends had Mrs. Newburg for a teacher for several grades in the two-room school we atteded. Her brother Earl and I would be in the next room, but always aware to make sure she was OK! Later, when I went off to college, it was particularly difficult for Jean and the separation she felt. But, I would surprise her and often come home unexpectedly and she wa always in tears of happiness to have us all together again as a family. Later, she would begin her schooling in Greenville and graduate from there where she made many friends that remained with her throughout her life. We saw our children born, shared all the birthday and holiday events as families do, and grieved when we lost our brother and both parents, all within 12 months of each other. But they are together again, loving and sharing and looking down on all of us - friends and family alike with love and support. We love you, Jean.
 
Eric Walsh
Tuesday March 31, 2009 at 11:48 AM

Dear Max, Lori and Kevin, I did not know Mrs. Johnson very well, but it did not take much to realize what a caring, friendly and wonderful person she was. She welcomed me with open arms and treated me like i was family. I am very sorry for your loss. In My Prayers-Billy.
 
Carolyn (Towne) Hansen
Monday March 30, 2009 at 10:10 PM

Dear Max, Lori and Kevin-I was so saddened to hear about Jean and I am thinking of all of you at this difficult time. Jean was always such an inspiration to everyone who knew her.In My Prayers-Carolyn
 
Carl and Jane Large
Monday March 30, 2009 at 9:19 PM

Max and family. We are so sorry. Only our Lord knows why some are taken so suddenly and much too soon. You are in our thoughts and prayers. Carl and Jane
 
Julia Herwig
Monday March 30, 2009 at 9:19 PM

Dear Max, Lori, and Kevin, I had the privilege of working with Jean for many years during her time with Head Start. She was wonderful to work with, fun, talented, and dedicated to her work. She will be missed by many in Michigan and in other states where she worked. I feel very lucky to have known Jean and know that she loved her family. My prayers are with you all, in time, your memories will bring smiles to your faces. Sincerely, Julia Herwig
 
Linda Young
Monday March 30, 2009 at 9:09 PM

I knew Jean through her work with Head Start. She was always so full of life and enjoyed every minute of it. Jean had a special gift of being able to uplift and inspire others. I am glad to have known and worked with Jean. She will be missed by many. My condolences to the family.
 
Tom Johnson & Toni Edgerly
Monday March 30, 2009 at 7:13 PM

Uncle Max Our Thought and Prayers are with you and your family. Our sympathy and heartfelt condolences are extended to you. All of our love, Tom & Toni and Family
 
Betsi Riva
Monday March 30, 2009 at 6:45 PM

There are angels walking around this Earth disguised as humans. Jean was one of them. She was everything I admire most in a person, loving, caring, giving, intelligent, honest,funny...I could go on and on. I am privileged to have been her friend and coworker. If you have ever seen the commercial for the Bright Idea from Discover card, with the little ball of sunshine that offers to help people, that was Jean. She was a great listener and a true friend. My deepest condolences to her family.
 
Genny Towne
Monday March 30, 2009 at 3:50 PM

Max and All, I will never forget Jean. She was one of the greatest people I have ever known. I thought of her often, and her beautiful voice. I loved to hear her sing!! She will be missed by more than you will probably ever know...ME included. I am so saddened. Genny
 
Joyanne Swanson
Monday March 30, 2009 at 2:10 PM

God be with you all during this time of deep sadness. Jean was full of energy, life and love. I know her physical presence will be missed tremendously. May you feel God's loving arms holding you and giving you comfort. I pray that in time memories of moments spent with Jean will bring you laughter and smiles instead of tears and sadness. Thinking of you and praying for you.
 
Steve Peabody
Monday March 30, 2009 at 1:50 PM

So sorry for your loss. My thoughts are with you all.
 
Nola Larson
Monday March 30, 2009 at 10:56 AM

Max, Lori and Kevin, There are no words to express my grief for the loss of your wife, your mother and my friend. She was a ray of sunshine and my life was made better because she was a part of it. My prayers are with you through the coming days and months. Nola Larson
 
Sueann Unger
Monday March 30, 2009 at 2:17 AM

Lori, I was so saddened to learn of the passing of your mother. Although I did not know her, I knew of her and your close relationship with her. May you feel God's comforting touch during this time. Prayers & love to you, Dan & the girls
 
Sandra Tobey
Sunday March 29, 2009 at 7:41 PM

Lori, Your mom holds a special place in my heart. Seems like I have known her as long as I can remember along with her mom and dad. One thing I always remember is how she used to say we all needed to have a sense of humor and be able to laugh. I can see her laughing now and smiling down on us. I remember her leading songs at HeadStart trainings & gatherings. Always fun and always had a hug for you. She will be missed by many.
 
laura landry
Saturday March 28, 2009 at 11:26 PM

I just wanted to say that I just met Jean and Max this year at the Diotima ball in Jan. I ran into them again at a boat and RV show at the Civic Center in Houma. I liked Jean and Max immediately. Jean was so warm, friendly, and so personable, that I extended an invitation to her to join our sorority. I was surprised to learn that she and Max were snowbirds. I want to say that I believe that she was a wonderful lady to those whose path she had crossed in this life. And finally, with her unexpected departure from this world, I am sure that this snowbird has undoubtedly earned her heavenly wings to soar to new heights in the glory of our Heavenly Father. My sympathy and heartfelt condolences are extended to her family and friens.
 
Judy (Edgerly) Atkins
Saturday March 28, 2009 at 11:24 AM

There are no words that can express how much I share your sorrow. Jean was very special to me and to so many others in her life's journey. Her joyful love of life was contagious, and she was a tremendous gift to all who knew her. Love, Hugs, and Prayers...
 
Nancy and Dale Brown
Friday March 27, 2009 at 10:48 PM

Max, Kevin, Aimee, and family: Our deepest sympathies go out to you for your loss especially because of the woman Jean was. She had the most beautiful countenance and gift of making everyone she met feel like her new best friend. We will miss her, especially in January, since we have gotten used to seeing her lovely face at our dance! We still expect to see you, Max! All our love, Nancy and Dale Brown
 
Chris Kohn
Friday March 27, 2009 at 6:14 PM

My heart has been so heavy since learning of your loss....memories of Jean directing the St. Paul choir will always be so vivid! She brought such joy to us all with her musical talents....her singing El Shaddai is one of my favorite memories. With love, our prayers, and a hug for you all- Chris & Tom
 
Shaleigh Kok, Cave Creek, Arizona
Friday March 27, 2009 at 5:00 PM

My heart goes out to your family, you all have been in my prayers this past week. We have lost touch over the years but you are never far from my thoughts. I remember Jean as such a bright, positive, beautiful person. I pray that you find courage and strength during your journey forward. My love and prayers are with you all.
 
David and Lorri McGowan
Friday March 27, 2009 at 3:08 PM

Our prayers are with your family at this most difficult time. Jean always had a smile and a positive approach to life. David remembers her many visits to their house on Cedar St to see Carma. May God give you strength and comfort.
 
Susan Waldron
Friday March 27, 2009 at 2:27 PM

Joel and I are praying for your family. Please let us know what is needed to make things smooth when you arrive back in Louisiana. Sending hugs. Susan
 
Judy Matherne
Friday March 27, 2009 at 9:55 AM

I did not know Jean for long since she only spent her wintes here in Houma La with Max, but I never saw her without a smile on her face and you could tell she enjoyed life. I know Kevin and Aimee will miss her terribly and along with all her friends in Houma.
 
Carole Pinell
Friday March 27, 2009 at 8:54 AM

Jean was such a beautiful person and I am so glad I had the fortune to know her. Max and Jean's marriage was a testament of true love, and I believe that their lives, though separate for now, will continue to be an inspiration to all. We love you!
 
Sally Beck
Thursday March 26, 2009 at 7:43 PM

I have many great memories of Jean and her thoughfulness, sense of humor, and friendly personality. My prayers are with and will remain with the family.
 
Terry & Diane Kunst
Thursday March 26, 2009 at 3:48 PM

How saddened we were to hear of the loss of Jean, what a dynamic person to know and love! Her joy of life was so obvious, just talking to her brightened the day. Our prayers are with all of the family.
 
Anita Neal
Thursday March 26, 2009 at 3:12 PM

Many prayers are with you all. Jean was such a wonderful lady. Our loss is definitely Heaven's gain.
 
Warren and Phyllis Wells, Stanton
Thursday March 26, 2009 at 2:16 PM

We are on vacation in Texas visiting Tina & Family when we heard about Jean. We cannot tell you how saddened we are--Jean was always so up-lifting to be around.
 
Cori Anderson
Thursday March 26, 2009 at 2:03 PM

My thoughts and prayers are with all of you. Jean was a very special person to me and will be dearly missed. Love, Cori Castro-Anderson
 
Char Camfield
charcamco@sbcglobal.net
Thursday March 26, 2009 at 9:36 AM

Earth lost a friend; heaven gained a bright and shining new angel. Love and prayers are with all of you. Char
 







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