EASTHAMPTON – The world lost a beloved mother Patricia Johnson (Henry) on July 4, 2022. She passed away peacefully in her home surrounded by her loving family after a courageous battle with metastatic breast cancer.
Patricia was born on September 27,1949 in Westfield, MA to her loving parents, the late Thomas and Jeannette Henry. She moved to Easthampton in 1972 with her husband to raise their children. She was predeceased by her husband Kenneth Johnson in 1981.
Patricia worked as a Neuro-rehab supervisor at Care One in Holyoke where she held various positions over 38 years. She was known for being very passionate about her work, and for her dedication to the residents she supported. Patricia was a hard-worker, and her colleagues knew her as a kind soul, always willing to help others. She developed many meaningful friendships with her co-workers over the years, and their love and support throughout her illness meant so much to Patricia and her family.
Patricia devoted her life to helping others, frequently volunteering to host parties or make food for those in need. Patricia represented the good that we all need every day in our lives. She could find the silver lining to keep pushing forward in any situation. She loved spending time with her family, enjoyed cooking and planning parties, holidays and playing cards together. She cherished her loving sisters Kathaleen and Debbie and their close relationship; always being there for one another. Patricia had such a special bond with her five grandchildren whom she had tremendous pride for their accomplishments, always there to support and guide them. She had an incredible impact on their lives and loved how they called her “Meme.” She enjoyed cooking, reading, watching hockey games, and loved all shades of the color blue. Patricia also loved butterflies and collecting angels and bells from around the world. To say that her family and friends will miss her immensely is an understatement. She was truly one of a kind who made the world a better place and will be forever remembered for her generous heart and kindness.
Besides her parents, and husband, she is also predeceased by her sister Kathaleen Lafreniere whom she said she will be dancing in heaven with. Patricia is survived by her four children who were the entirety of her life: three sons Richard, Andrew, and Chad Johnson, her daughter Shannon Gravel and her husband Mark. Her five grandchildren April Hill, Austin Johnson, Ryan Johnson, Shane, and Meagan Gravel; 2 great grandchildren Mia and Aria; sister Debbie Bonazelli; brother in-law Kenneth Lafreniere, and several nieces, nephews, and countless friends.
The family would like to give a special thanks to the entire team at the Mass General Cancer Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, and most recently the Fisher home and hospice for the exceptional care, compassion, and support. Calling hours will be held on July 12th from 11-2 at the Firtion-Adams Funeral Home, Westfield, MA. Burial will immediately follow in Pine Hill Cemetery. Donations in Patricia’s name may be made to the Mass General Cancer Center at Cooley Dickinson Hospital, 30 Locust St., Northampton, MA 01060, or: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place: Memphis TN 38105
