Mary Elizabeth Johnson

Mary Elizabeth (Frost) Johnson, 97, a lifelong resident of Winchester, passed away peacefully on Sunday, February 9, 2025, at her home of over 74 years. She was surrounded by the love of her family. She was born the eldest daughter of Madelene (Handy) and Forest Appleton Frost on October 29, 1927, in Winchester. She was educated locally and graduated (saludatorian) from Thayer High School class of 1945. On August 26, 1950, Mary exchanged vows with the love of her life, Stephen Prentice Johnson. They were married in The Center Church, (the “brick” church in the center of Winchester) and were happily married for over 63 years. Stephen passed away on February 5, 2014, 11 years and 4 days before Mary. Music was her life and everything centered around it. Mary was fortunate to have been blessed with perfect pitch. She graduated from Boston University with a degree in Music Education, honing her skills in piano, organ and cello. She then taught at a Laconia, NH school for a year. She was the Music Director at The Federated Church of Winchester, now The United Church of Winchester, for many (45+) years. playing the organ, leading the Senior and Youth choirs, and directing other musical groups. She had sung in the Keene Chorale and participated in many area music opportunities, including the Keene and Brattleboro American Legion Bands. One of her fondest memories is, as a young adult, home from college for the summer, along with her sisters, hosting a live radio broadcast of music on Sunday mornings. It was 15 minutes on a Keene station (WKNE) and was a very joyous and wonderful experience for them! Mary enjoyed her time working for the town of Winchester in many capacities. Starting as Deputy Tax Collector for 15 years, then 14 years as the Tax Collector and as Supervisor of the Check List; she served the town for over 60 years! Along with working, Mary loved being a member of many different organizations. She was involved in the Kings Daughter’s and Son’s, the Winchester Women’s Club, Winchester Community band, and the Keene Community Orchestra. She was also a proud member of the United Church of Winchester and had served as their treasurer for many years. She will be fondly remembered by many patrons for serving them at the church monthly Bean Suppers. In retirement, she volunteered numerous hours as accompanist for the school music program, helped with the marching band at Memorial Day parades, and playing piano for the residents at Applewood once to twice a week. Mary was also an avid handbell ringer with many groups. She also knitted many hats and mittens for anyone who needed them. An amazing seamstress, she was always making something! She also tatted and crocheted. Jigsaw puzzles were a passion, and she had hundreds of them! Mrs. Johnson is survived by her daughters, Martha Johnson of Spain, Miriam Johnson of Winchester, and Elizabeth Johnson of Hillsborough. She is also survived by her 5 grandchildren, 10 great grandchildren, and her great great grandson, a sister-in-law, and a brother-in-law. Mary had a large family that also included step grandchildren and step great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, many extended family, and so many dear friends. She was predeceased by her parents, her husband, and her two sisters, Ruth Fairburn and Caroline Polk; her sister in law, Margaret, two Sons in Law and Grace Jane, a great granddaughter. In keeping with Mary’s wishes, a celebration of life service will be held at The United Church of Winchester on March 22, 2025, at 4 pm. Refreshments and time as “family and friends” will follow, to be held in the Fellowship Hall at the church. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The United Church of Winchester, 99 Main Street, Winchester, NH 03470. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, Chapel, and Crematories. [www.cheshirefamilyfh.com]

Tributes

Mary Elizabeth Johnson

October 29, 1927 - February 9, 2025