Cover for Carol Ann (Symonds) Johnson's Obituary

IN LOVING MEMORY OF

Carol Ann (Symonds)

Johnson

Mar 12, 1947 — Sep 7, 2026

Obituary

Carol Ann (Symonds) Johnson, 79, of Spofford, NH, passed away peacefully at her home on Monday, September 7, 2026. Following her most recent hospitalization, Carol’s family cared for her at home. In the same spirit of love and care that Carol had given so freely throughout her life, her family surrounded her with that same love and care in her final days, honoring their promise to bring her home and be by her side. Surrounded by the people she loved most, Carol spent her last days in the comfort and familiarity of her own home, embraced by her family's love, care, and unwavering dedication. It was where she belonged—surrounded by those who meant the most to her.

Carol was born in Keene, NH, on March 12, 1947, the daughter of the late Roger Eugene and Yvonne Mary Rose (Pelletier) Symonds. She grew up in Keene and attended St. Joseph’s School, Lady of Monadnock Academy, and Keene High School, graduating in 1965. Carol also lived in Escondido, California for a short time during her teenage years where she learned to drive.

Carol began her professional career in Worcester, MA. where she attended Wards IBM Business School, and later worked for Holbrook Grocery and IGA. On October 14, 1967, she married the love of her life, Robert Edwin Johnson. She stepped away from her career for a time to devote herself to raising and caring for her family, a role she embraced wholeheartedly. Carol volunteered at St. Joseph's School as school board treasurer. She would chaperone any school trips she could, even Nature's Classroom in Cape Cod where they were evacuated because of a hurricane. As her children grew older, Carol returned to the workforce, beginning a career in data entry with Main Fidelity. Through her dedication and hard work, she advanced to the position of Claims Examiner, which she enjoyed very much. She later joined D&L Thomas, where she worked in Accounts Payable until her retirement.

Carol’s greatest joy was her family; her husband was her world, followed by her children, grandchildren who knew her as “Nanny” and great-grandson who knew her as “Meme,” all of whom held a very special place in her heart. She devoted herself wholeheartedly to those she loved, and her kindness, care, and unwavering love were a gift to all who were fortunate enough to call her wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Carol would tell you that, “She and Dad grew up in the best of times and had no worries, unlike the world today.”

Carol and Bob spent free time making memories camping with their children at the Tree Farm in Springfield, VT, Pennsylvania, and even Orlando, FL—where an armadillo stole their donuts from the picnic table. After retirement, their love of camping returned and they enjoyed a seasonal campsite in Hancock, NH, where they formed lasting friendships with their “camp friends.” Those friendships continued throughout the recent years, with gatherings during the off-season creating even more cherished memories.

In her earlier years, Carol enjoyed traveling with the love of her life and was fortunate to make wonderful memories in places like Ireland, Scotland, Paris, Italy, and one of their favorite places, Prince Edward Island. At home, she loved playing board games with her family and took great pride in knitting beautiful sweaters, mittens, and hats for her grandchildren. She also enjoyed reading, baking, cooking, and bowling. She had a particular fondness for fried clams, pasta, and, most especially, carrot cake. For those of you who have followed Carol over the past few years, you will know that she formed a bond with her stuffed animal, Curious George. Often times, he would give updates on her condition to her online following and was with her right until the end, George was her buddy.

Carol will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by her husband of nearly 60 years, Robert Edwin Johnson; her daughters, Gina Reynolds of Hinsdale, NH, Sandra Chickering and her husband, Jeffrey of Chesterfield, NH; and her son, Jason Johnson and his wife, Erin of Saxtons River, VT; her brother, James Beauregard of Keene, NH. She will also be greatly missed by her beloved grandchildren, Henry Morelli, Katherine Caggianelli and her husband, Nicholas, Anthony Morelli, Anna Morelli, Mackenzie Reynolds, and Alexander “Zander” Johnson; her great-grandson, Dalton Reynolds; and her soon-to-arrive great-granddaughter, Addison, whom Carol was determined to hold on long enough to meet.

In addition to her parents, Carol was predeceased by her sisters, Janet Derosier and Mary Geilenberg.

A Funeral Mass will be celebrated at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 3, 2026, at St. Margaret Mary Church, 33 Arch Street, Keene, NH.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Carol’s memory may be made to Joan’s Pantry, 532 Route 63, Chesterfield, NH 03443.

Services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, Chapel, and Crematories.


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Funeral Services

Funeral Service

October
3

Saturday

St. Margaret Mary Church

33 Arch Street, Keene, NH 03431

Starts at 11:00 am (Eastern time)

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