Lois Johnson

Lois Jeanne Ramsey Johnson, 93, of Ocala, FL, passed away on May 15, 2024. Lois was born on June 9, 1930, in Boston, MA,

Lois was a truly remarkable woman whose life was a beautiful testament to love, learning, and leadership. An elegant woman of timeless style, she moved through the world with immense grace and a heart wide open. She possessed a deep pride in her roots and family lineage, which she honored through her dedicated membership in the Mayflower Society. Raised by Walter J.T. Heywood and Alice E. Evans Heywood, Lois grew up with a solid foundation of family after the death of her mother, Alice Eleanor Heywood, Ramsey. In her youth, she shared a home with her grandparents, then with Dorothy "Auntie Dottie" and Judson Phinney, beginning a lifetime of cherished family connections and an expanded meaning of family.

An educator and civic leader of exceptional caliber, Lois was honored with the prestigious Massachusetts Teacher of the Year award. Her impactful career ranged from shaping young minds at various elementary schools across Eastern Massachusetts to inspiring future educators at Tufts University and Framingham State University. Lois brought passion and purpose to everything she did, and poured her soul into it, leaving an enduring legacy rooted in her unwavering belief in the power of education, youth, and the arts. In her community, she was a force for good, serving as the Foundation Chairwoman at Monroe Regional Hospital and as a devoted member of the Royal Dames. She was recognized by the March of Dimes and was named Philanthropist of the Year. Lois was instrumental in organizing the Barkitecture Gala celebrating a successful fund-raising and auction effort. Marion Cultural Alliance and the Humane Society of Marion Country joined forces to sponsor Barkitecture. The event involved local architects who designed and built magnificent doghouses and cat condos which were sold at auction at the gala. Her commitment to making the arts accessible and vibrant shone through her enthusiastic support of cultural milestones, including the Appleton Museum of Art and the iconic Horse Fever public art project.

Lois was the absolute heartbeat of her family, showering them with unconditional love and wisdom. She leaves behind the daughter of her heart, Jennifer Johnson-Corwin, son Edward Johnson III, and her loving grandchildren Ciara and Connor. She instilled in them that the little things in life were the moments to truly cherish. As a grandmother she passed on her adventurous spirit, deep love for animals, and the importance of promoting inclusion. This simple message about making a meaningful, positive impact on their communities serves as a beautiful, active tribute that honors her memory every day.

Lois deeply valued the beauty of family. She treasured important life experiences with her family growing up and did the same with her loving niece, Julie and her husband Bob Marotta of Harwich, MA, and nephew Walter and husband Chad Mosher of South Dennis, MA. They went on outings that resulted in cultural experiences and lots of laughter.

Known for wearing her heart on her sleeve, Lois had a rare, magical gift for making every single person feel like they were the most important person in the room whenever she spoke to them. She genuinely loved everybody, and her warmth was so sincere that everyone who crossed her path felt it deeply. Following Lois's passing, her two cherished cats, Abby and Spunky, passed away not long after, followed the next year by her beloved husband, Edward “Eddie” Johnson. They are all now peacefully reunited.

Her beautiful legacy lives on in the family she adored, the countless lives she inspired, and the next generations who continue to carry her light forward. In honor of Lois's lifelong passion for nurturing young minds, those who wish to contribute to her memory are invited to donate to youth education or arts education programs at a local school or charity of their choice.