Jeanne S. Johnson 1944-2026

She was born March 1, 1944, in Altoona, Pa., a daughter of the late Harold and EmmaBelle Bookhamer Norris.

She graduated from Poland Seminary High School and then Youngstown State University with an associate degree in early childhood education.

She married Roy Johnson in 1967 and enjoyed 57 years of marriage until Roy’s passing in 2024.

Sue was a woman whose life was rooted in love, faith and quiet strength. As co-owner of Daisy Dell Preschool and Sunday school teacher at Evangel Baptist Church, she helped shape the lives of countless children and families. For 30 years, she faithfully taught preschoolers, pouring patience, kindness and gentle guidance into each little life that crossed her path. Caring for others wasn’t just something she did — it was who she was.

Her love extended far beyond the classroom. She was deeply devoted to her family, especially her grandchildren, taking an active and joyful role in their lives. Whether she was tending to her garden — where daisies seemed to bloom a little brighter under her care — or crocheting something made with her hands and heart, she found beauty in the simple, meaningful moments.

A woman of deep and steady faith, Sue was known as a quiet prayer warrior, often waking in the middle of the night to pray, believing wholeheartedly that even the smallest moments carried purpose.

That same quiet strength defined her during her seven-year battle with metastatic breast cancer. She faced it with courage, grace and an unwavering spirit, never losing her selfless nature or her desire to care for others.

She will be remembered for her gentle presence, her servant’s heart and the enduring love she gave so freely — an example of faith and strength that will continue to live on in all who were lucky enough to know her.

Sue leaves behind to cherish her memory her daughters, Amy (Drews) Mitchell of Maineville and Dr. Lynn (Royce) Johnson-VanDervort of Warren; her grandchildren, Jared (Kaitlin) Mitchell, Amber (Bryan) Snyder, Katie, Megan and Allie VanDervort; her great-grandson, Jackson Mitchell; and her siblings, Judy (late Carl “Buck”) Port, Harold “Butch” (Bonnie) Norris, Bob (Sue) Norris, Kathie (Mike) Altier and Richard (Beth) Norris; along with many beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her loving husband, Roy Johnson.

Friends and family will be received 10 to 10:45 a.m. Saturday, May 2, 2026, at Evangel Baptist Church in Boardman, followed immediately by a funeral service beginning at 11 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to The Pink Fund, PO Box 607, Southfield, MI 48037, which provides financial assistance for people undergoing breast-cancer treatment.

Arrangements have been entrusted to the Davis-Becker Funeral Home in Boardman.

Visit www.beckerobits.com to send the family condolences and share your memories.

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