Janis T. Johnson, 91, died peacefully at her home in Eastham of natural causes on Jan. 25, 2021, her 91st birthday. She had just enjoyed a morning nap.
Born in New York City to Dorothy (Gannett) and George Tyler, she lived there until school age. The Depression brought the family back to Scituate, where her mother’s family had lived for more than two centuries and where Janis developed her lifelong love of the ocean.
Her maternal grandfather, Scotty Gannet, a talented sailor, was renowned for the Friendship Sloops he built in Scituate Harbor. The family moved briefly to Cape Cod while her father worked on the construction of Camp Edwards. She graduated from Scituate High School in 1947 and from Sargent College of Boston University in 1951.
Her first marriage, which ended in divorce, was followed by her 51-year marriage to Aaron Johnson. They lived in Hudson, N.H. before moving to Lancaster and York, Pa. for almost 30 years. She worked throughout her life, first as a physical therapist, and later as a social worker. She earned her M.S.W. from the University of Maryland in 1972 and her D.S.W. from the University of Pennsylvania in 1985.
For the last two decades of her working life she was professor of sociology at Immaculata College (now University) in Malvern, Pa. She enjoyed a close relationship with many of the wonderful sisters who taught at the college and shared their passionate belief in women’s education.
Having grown up mostly in a small town, Janis was anything but closed-minded and embraced progressive ideals, striving to understand the contemporary moment. She had a strong sense of justice, always ready to advocate for those who struggled or needed a hand.
After retiring, she moved with Aaron to North Eastham, where they attracted a large circle of friends. She was a daily lap swimmer for most of her life and an avid walker. In her final decades she explored painting classes at the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, and particularly enjoyed her memoir group, where she rediscovered her talent as a writer and storyteller.
Perhaps her greatest strength was her capacity for friendship with people of all ages and from all walks of life. She often mentored younger women, offering an open ear and heart. She enjoyed close relationships with her grandchildren. Never judgmental, she listened to tales of their adventures and offered wise counsel.
Until the last, she maintained a marvelous curiosity about the world and people around her, avidly following politics and current events. A voracious reader, she transitioned to audio books, consuming biographies and, most recently, the novels of Anthony Trollope.
She is survived by her children, Connie Johnson and husband Martin Rindlisbacher, Phil Johnson and wife Donna Gordon, Jennifer Johnson and husband Benjamin Dugan; her grandchildren, Larkin and Max Dugan, Benjamin and Jack Johnson, Christof and Margrit Rindlisbacher; her sister-in-law, Dorothy Tyler; and many nieces, nephews, grand-nieces, and -nephews. She was predeceased by her husband and her brother, Clifford Tyler.
A private family service will be followed, when spring arrives, by an outdoor memorial service for her wide circle of friends. In lieu of flowers, donations may go to the Homeless Prevention Council in Orleans.
For online condolences visit nickersonfunerals.com.
