Esther J. Johnson, 87

NEWTON FALLS – Esther J. Johnson, 87, entered into eternal rest on Tuesday, Dec. 8, 2009, at Hospice House in Poland, with her family by her side.
Esther was born on Aug. 19, 1922 in Huntersville, Pa., the daughter of Clarence and Margarete (Shaffler) Minnier.
Esther married Howard Johnson on Nov. 6, 1949. They were married for 48 years until his passing on Sept. 16, 1998.
She had lived in Newton Falls since 1953, formerly of Tivola, Pa.
Esther attended the First Church of God in Newton Falls.
She was a member of the New Lease on Life Handicap Organization for 39 years. She also was a Cub Scout leader for Troop 69 for 24 years. Esther enjoyed crocheting.
Esther leaves to cherish her memories, daughters, Ruth Ann Rutherford of Niles and Emma and James Campbell of Hurricane, W.Va.; sons, James and Carol Rine of Newton Falls, Howard and Tracy Johnson of Leavittsburg and John Johnson of Cleveland; sisters, Alfreda and James Sones of Glenmarr, Pa. and June Walsh of Tivola; brother, Robert and Debra Minnier of Montoursville, Pa.; sister-in-law, Dorothy Minnier of Wheaton, Mo.; 14 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; and nine great-great-grandchildren.
Esther was preceded in death by her husband, Howard; daughters, Alfreda Johnson and Katheryn Scarpola; son, Curtis Johnson; sisters, Gladys Coleman and Lillian Sheffler; and a brother, Harley E. Minnier.
Funeral services will be held on Saturday, Dec. 12, 2009, at 11 a.m. at the James Funeral Home.
Calling hours will be held on Friday, Dec. 11, 2009, from 6 to 8 p.m. at the funeral home.
Esther will be laid to rest next to her husband, Howard at St. Joseph Cemetery.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the James Funeral Home, 8 East Broad St., Newton Falls, OH 44444.