Mary Helen Rahe Johnson, 91,passed away peacefully at her home on August 8, 2013, surroundedby her family, after complications from a recent stroke.
Mary was born January 18, 1922 in Galveston, Texas and was the daughter of Ursulee and Anthony Rahe. She is predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Raymond C. Johnson, Jr. and her two sisters, Ursulee Rahe and Georgia Flake of Galveston and LaMarque, Texas respectively. Mary graduated from Sacred Heart Academy in Galveston. During her student years, she was an organist at Sacred Heart Cathedral. During World War II, she served as a secretary and typist in the Department of War in Galveston. Her husband, Raymond Johnson, was Professor Emeritus and head of the University of Florida’s Department of Engineering research laboratory since arriving in 1946 and worked there for over 40 years.
The couple were long time members of St. Patrick’s Church in Gainesville, Florida. They were active in the founding of St. Patrick’s School and involved with volunteer operations there for many years. They were also charter members of Holy Faith Catholic Church for the past 40 years. Mary considered her family her most important vocation.
She is survived by her nine children; Mary Hoffer (Charles), Sheryl Johnson, Raymond Johnson III (Willene), Susan Carmel Lehrman, Michael Johnson (Sylvia), Robert Johnson (Denise), William Johnson (Eva), James Johnson, and Rita Gardner (Bob), 17 grandchildren and 11 great grandchildren.
Visitation will be held from 5:00 – 7:00 pm on Tuesday, August 13th at Forest Meadows Funeral Home, 725 NW 23rd Ave, Gainesville, FL with a prayer service at 6:45 pm. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at Holy Faith Catholic Church at 9:30 am on Wednesday, August 14, 2013 with Fr. John M. Phillips presiding, and Fr. Emmanuel Pazhayapurackal, and Fr. Steve Zehler con celebrating.
Memorial donations may be made in Mary’s honor to Holy Faith Catholic Church, 747 NW 43rd Street, Gainesville, FL 32607.
We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Mary was such a beautiful person. She will be missed by all who knew her.
Mike and Markie,
Please know that you and your family are in our thoughts and prayers.
Rita and Family,
We are very sorry for your loss. We remember what a sweet and classy lady your mother was. Our prayers are with you all during this difficult time.
Mimi, Sisi , Susan & Family
I am so sorry for your loss. Your mother was an incredibly kind and caring woman. I will truly miss her, and will keep her and your family in my thoughts and prayers.
Eileen Hudson
Dear Susan and Johnson family,
I just heard of your Mothers passing today, and I’m so very sorry. Susan, I know you were so close to her and very appreciative of her support and encouragement. I have many found memories of spending time at your house.
Much love
Gail