Shirley Johnson

July 6, 1930 – July 17, 2012

      Shirley Johnson passed away July 17th, 2012 after a courageous two year battle with cancer.

      She was born Shirley Mary Bagnall, July 6, 1930 in Bloomfield, New Jersey. After WWII, her family moved to Renton, WA, where she met Forrest Johnson in high school. They married in 1950 and settled on Bainbridge Island to raise their two children.

      Shirley was blessed with a beautiful voice and as a young girl took lessons at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York. She enjoyed choral singing and for several years was the soloist at the Rolling Bay Church on Bainbridge.

      Shirley worked for 15 years for principal Ed King at Wilkes Elementary School. She loved her country and took immense pride in her three older brothers who served in combat as Marines during World War II. Shirley had a great interest in politics and served as President of the Kitsap Republican Women’s Club. Later she was elected Vice-chairman of the 39th District Republicans.

      In 1987, they moved to Darrington where they have resided ever since. Shirley started a small flock of sheep to support her wool spinning hobby. She entered her fleeces in various fairs and shows, winning numerous ribbons, culminating in a “Best of Show” against entrants from all over the Northwest.

      Her greatest pride and enjoyment in life was her family. She is survived by her husband, Forrest, daughter, Diane Miller (Budd), son, Forrest Jr. (Randi), six grandchildren, Sam Miller (Anne), Ben Miller, Ned Miller (Jill), Devin Johnson (Courtney), Amanda Johnson, Brandon Johnson, and four great-grandchildren; brother, Walter Bagnall (Ruth) and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her father, her mother and two of her brothers.

      A private family service will be held at the Transfiguration Episcopal Church in Darrington.

      Memorial donations may be made to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org).

      Please sign the online guest book at: www.wellerfh.com.

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