Elsie Florence (Byrd) Johnson
August 29, 1919 — July 24, 2017
Elsie Florence (Byrd) Johnson
A Strong and Patient Woman -
Elsie Florence (Byrd) Johnson, age 97, of Lancaster, and formerly of Mechanicsburg, passed away peacefully on Monday, July 24, 2017. Elsie was born on Friday, August 29, 1919 in St. Mary’s to the late Commodore Perry Byrd and Mamie (Smithers) Byrd. Elsie was the widow of Glenn Lorraine Johnson, whom she married on June 29, 1938, and who died on January 18, 1996. In addition to her parents and husband, Elsie is preceded in death by two brothers; three sisters; and her grandson, Craig Failor.
Elsie’s survivors include her three children: Joan Stokes of Mechanicsburg, Linda Kling of Lancaster, Kent Johnson and his wife, Darlene, of Duncannon; her granddaughter, Laurie Viozzi of Chambersburg; her two great grandchildren: Jennifer Failor of Lancaster, Anthony Viozzi of Chambersburg; and several nieces and nephews.
Elsie retired from G.C. Murphy Co. in Mechanicsburg, after many years of service working as an accounting clerk. She attended Wesley United Methodist Church in Mechanicsburg. Elsie loved her hometown and it was where she spent most of her life. Most days, she could be found walking all over the town with her dear friend, Anne. Elsie liked being a part of the Mechanicsburg Senior Center and attending the bus trips with them. Even though she did things with others, Elsie preferred to think of herself as a very independent woman. She was also immensely strong and patient. Elsie chose to live a simple life; she was often quiet and private about her business. She enjoyed putting puzzles together and was an avid reader of anything that she could get her hands on. Elsie never missed an edition of her local newspaper, which she read daily.
All are welcome to join Elsie’s family at her viewing on Monday, July 31, 2017, from 9:45 a.m. until time of service at 10:30 a.m. at Myers - Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory, 37 East Main Street, Mechanicsburg, PA 17055; with Reverend Dr. Dennis Keller officiating. Elsie’s family invites everyone to join them for a time of food and fellowship at The Stage & Studio Café, next door to the funeral home, following the service. Burial will follow in Indiantown Gap National Cemetery in Annville.
Contributions in celebration of Elsie’s life can be made to the AseraCare Hospice, 280 Granite Run Drive Suite #180, Lancaster, PA 17601, www.AseraCareFoundation.org/Online-Donation-Form/.
Elsie’s family has entrusted her care to Myers – Buhrig Funeral Home and Crematory in Mechanicsburg, (717) 766-3421. Read Elsie’s full obituary, view her memorial video and portrait, and sign her official guest book at Buhrig.com.