Margaret Ann Johnson

It is with a heavy heart, but also with so much love and gratitude, that we announce the passing of Margaret Ann Johnson, born March 8, 1940, in Boston, MA, and peacefully departed this life on March 8, 2026, in Portland, OR. Margaret was a truly remarkable woman, a vibrant spirit who touched the lives of everyone she met. I have so many cherished memories of her – like the time she convinced us all to try making sourdough bread for the first time, and it ended up looking more like a geological formation than a loaf! She had this incredible knack for finding the humor in everyday situations, and her infectious laugh could fill a room. Margaret was, quite simply, one of the kindest people I’ve ever known. Margaret and Dan built a life filled with love, laughter, and a deep appreciation for the simple joys. She was a devoted wife, mother to Sheila, and cherished daughter to Elenor and Brad, and loving sister to Joe. Her family was her everything, and she nurtured those relationships with unwavering warmth and support. Beyond her family, Margaret found immense joy in her passions. She poured her heart into her garden, coaxing beautiful blooms from even the most stubborn soil, and lost herself in the worlds of mystery novels and captivating stories. And let’s not forget her love for jazz – she could always be found humming along to a classic tune, a twinkle in her eye. She truly lived life to the fullest, embracing every opportunity for adventure and connection. Margaret dedicated her life to sharing her love of learning as a retired teacher. She instilled in so many young people a lifelong love of reading and a thirst for knowledge. It was truly rewarding to see the impact she had on her students and the countless lives she touched through her dedication. And speaking of rewarding, she also found great satisfaction in her own writing – becoming a published author was a testament to her creativity and perseverance. She never stopped learning, growing, and challenging herself. Margaret is survived by her beloved husband, Dan Smith, her daughter Sheila Smith, and her siblings, Joe Smith. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her – her warmth, her wit, and her unwavering spirit will forever be remembered. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to [Charity of choice] in Margaret’s name.