Esther J. Johnson 1922-2009

NEWTON FALLS - Esther J. Johnson, 87, entered into eternal rest Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, at Hospice House in Poland with her family by her side.

Esther was born Aug. 19, 1922, in Huntersville, Pa., a daughter of Clarence and Margarete Shaffler Minnier.

Esther married Howard Johnson on Nov. 6, 1949. They were married for 48 years until his passing on Sept. 16, 1998.

Formerly of Tivola, Pa., Esther lived in Newton Falls since 1953.

She attended the First Church of God in Newton Falls, and was a member of the New Lease on Life Handicap Organization for 39 years. Esther also was a Cub Scout leader for Troop 69 for 24 years. She enjoyed crocheting.

Esther leaves to cherish her memories her daughters, Ruth Ann Rutherford of Niles, and Emma and James Campbell of Hurricane, W.Va.; sons, James and Carol Rine of Newton Falls, Howard and Tracy Johnson of Leavittsburg, and John Johnson of Cleveland; sisters, Alfreda and James Sones of Glenmarr, Pa., and June Walsh of Tivola, Pa.; brother, Robert and Debra Minnier of Montoursville, Pa.; sister-in-law, Dorothy Minnier of Wheaton, Mo.; 14 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren and nine great-great-grandchildren.

Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; daughters, Alfreda Johnson and Katheryn Scarpola; son, Curtis Johnson; sisters, Gladys Coleman and Lillian Sheffler; and a brother, Harley E. Minnier.

Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Saturday at James Funeral Home.

Calling hours will be held 6 to 8 p.m. Friday at the funeral home. Esther will be laid to rest next to her husband, Howard at St. Joseph Cemetery.

Arrangements have been entrusted to James Funeral Home, 8 E. Broad St., Newton Falls, Ohio 44444.

(special notice)