Doris Ann Johnson

Doris Ann (Crowe) Johnson passed away at age 88 on August 24, 2022. Doris was born in Sunnyside, WA, one of five siblings in a loving home full of banter, storytelling, and music. Beloved tales from her childhood include long walks with her father for birthday ice cream, backbreaking summers cutting asparagus, playing organ at church, antics with siblings Marilyn and Jay, and librarian scoldings (“Nan-Nan, you have checked out that same book over 100 times!”). After high school, her adventures took her to California to attend one semester at College of San Mateo with her best friends, Bev and Peggie Sue. Doris eventually graduated from WSU, so happy to march side-by-side at commencement with brother Jay, forever Cougs. 

Doris began her teaching career in Washougal, and it was there where a fellow teacher set her up on a blind date with his best friend, home on leave from the Air Force, the dashing young pilot and musician, Gary Johnson. After a whirlwind romance, Gary proposed months later on Valentine’s Day, 1957, and they married shortly thereafter, the beginning of a 62 year love affair.  During many transfers as a military couple, they welcomed daughters Roxanne and Robin.  

Doris and Gary eventually settled in Puyallup, where Doris taught business administration at Rogers High School for over 20 years. She influenced many young lives, teaching valuable skills with quiet kindness and high expectations. Doris and Gary were regulars at the RHS football and basketball games, thermos and seat cushions in hand, and of course, at concerts, avid supporters of the students in so many ways. Never one to sit still, after retiring from teaching, Doris worked on the campaign of State Superintendent Judy Billings, and continued that work in Olympia during her term in office. She also treasured assisting in police training education courses for the City of Puyallup. She enjoyed reading, golf, bridge, playing piano duets, dancing, and especially, traveling.

She was a wonderful mother and grandmother, her favorite roles in life. She was a teacher and advocate, nurturer and champion for her daughters. Her absolute joy in being Grandma to Isaac and Rose was immense. Doris was many things: smart, adventurous, brave, witty and oh so funny, tough as nails, fun and feisty, and so very proud of her family. As a dear friend lovingly noted, “you always knew where you stood with Doris”. We miss her. 

Doris is survived by daughters Roxanne and Robin (Peter Witte), grandchildren Isaac and Rose, sister Marilyn, numerous sisters and brother-in-laws, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 3, 2024, 11:00am at Shepherd of the Hill Presbyterian Church in Puyallup, WA.