Adrian D. (Strong) Johnson

PETERSHAM- Adrian Johnson (90) of Petersham, passed away peacefully Saturday June 7th, listening to George Harrison, surrounded and held by her family after a battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. 

Born on February 13, 1935, she was the daughter of the late Harold & Emilie Strong. She was raised in Long Island, NY.  Adrian moved to New England in 1957, ultimately falling in love with Petersham, where she would remain and raise her family. 

During her many years, she would go on to be: a hairdresser, inn-keeper, kennel owner, dog breeder, auxiliary police woman, Christmas tree farmer, paramedic and finally settled in nursing with a fulfilling 30 year career before retiring. When not working she could be found with family or one of her (many) dogs, in her kitchen (she was a phenomenal cook/baker and loved to try a new recipe), gardening, quilting or reading a good book. She spent many years traveling the country with her husband in their RV. She was a lover of good music and going to concerts, especially The Eagles and Arlo Guthrie. She loved a sunset on the Gulf of Mexico and a really good slice of pizza from Delosa’s at John’s Pass. But most of all, she was a dedicated mother and (great) grandmother. She raised her kids and grandkids to know that, like her, they were all incredibly capable of doing and achieving anything. She was, and will remain, their most avid supporter. 

Adrian is survived by her children, Joseph Piazza (Petronila) of Seattle, WA, Daron Piazza (Jay Abboud) of Leominster, MA, Sarah Piazza of Orange, MA, Scott Johnson of Bradford, VT, Steven Johnson of Athol, MA and Kim Johnson of South Carolina; grandchildren, Jessica LeBlanc (Michael) of Athol, MA, Morgan Johnson of Bradford, VT and great grand-daughter Sophia of Athol, MA. She also leaves “her man” Riley, her faithful German Shepard of many years. 

She was predeceased by her husband, James Johnson. 

Adrian lived a private but incredibly full life. In respect of this, there are no calling hours and graveside services will be private. 

In lieu of flowers, we politely request that you consider a donation to your local animal shelter or the ASPCA in honor of Adrian’s life-long love of dogs and her own long term support of these agencies. 

Witty’s Funeral Home, 158 South Main Street, Orange, is assisting the family.

WWW.WITTYFUNERALHOME.COM

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