Barbara Deegan Johnson

Barbara Deegan Johnson
05/24/1934 - 02/22/2017

Barbara Deegan Johnson, age 82, passed away Wednesday, February 22, 2017, at home in Chatham, New Jersey. She was born May 24, 1934, in Toledo, Ohio to George L. Deegan and Helen M. Deegan.

Barbara is the beloved mother of Matt Johnson, Kristin (Paul) Herendeen, William (Lynda) Johnson, and Michael (Angie) Johnson. She was preceded in death by her oldest son Mark, her brother William E. “Bill” Deegan, and parents. Barbara is the much-loved Aunt of Beth Lightner, Amy Roslovic, and George Deegan, and dear grandmother to eight grandchildren and three great grandchildren.

Barbara was a graduate of St. Agatha Elementary School, Upper Arlington High School and The Ohio State University. Over 20 year increments, she grew up in Upper Arlington, raised her children in Bay Village Ohio, enjoyed San Diego California and delighted in Chatham New Jersey. She spoke often of and painted in watercolor the natural beauty of this country.

Her greatest joy was her children and the laughter the family created. In spite of her health challenges, Barbara was determined to live life to the fullest.

High-spirited, life-affirming, spiritual, curious, exuberant, lively, fun, silly, mischievous, smart, compassionate, and an infectious laugh describe her, and especially her joie de vivre.

She was a watercolor artist and painted close to 100 pieces. She enjoyed playing her double bow Mason & Hamlin baby grand piano. An avid bridge player for over 70 years, she made many new friends in Chatham of all ages. Gin rummy and Texas Hold ‘Em were second best, laughingly played with children and grandchildren and their friends. She loved winning and did often.

She was a close friend to many and shared her light wherever she went. She often said “relax, breathe, be free and joyous, and romp!” She meditated and listed gratitudes with feeling every day. She looked for the “gift of this experience” and often said “everything is working out for my highest good.” Most of all, she encouraged all of us to follow our dreams. She did.

Mass of Christian Burial will be held at Our Mother of Sorrow Chapel, 6440 South High St., Lockbourne, Ohio and burial at St Joseph Cemetery on Friday, March 3, 2017 at 2pm.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions to Atlantic Home Care and Hospice, 465 South St, Morristown, NJ 07960, attn. donations.


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