Claire C. Johnson

Claire Catherine Watkins Johnson, 88, born to Ralph William and Nona Mabel Watkins, January 5, 1930. Claire grew up and lived in Damascus all of her life, not more than 5 miles from where she was born in Purdum. Claire was a daughter, sister, wife, mother, aunt, cousin, grandmother, great grandmother and much more to many others. She was dearly loved by family and all that knew her.

Claire is survived by children Andrew Johnson, Damascus, Md.; Teresa Johnson-Turnbull and husband, John, Damascus, Md.. Grandchildren: Joseph and Kaylie Johnson, Rodgersville, Tn.; Joshua Johnson, Tampa Fl.; Justin Johnson, Frederick, Md.; Alishia Bjorson Smith and husband Joshua, Glenville, WV.; Joshua Bjorson, Greenville, TX,; and Jonathan Bjorson, Damascus, Md.. Eight Greatgrandchildren and beloved niece Patty Coolidge Gornell and son Michael “Chip” Gornell of Baltimore, OH.

Claire was preceded in death by her sister LulaMae Watkins; husband Gerald Hartsell Johnson and son Michael William Johnson.

Claire was a life-long member of Montgomery United Methodist Church for 76 years. During this time, she served on many committees. Claire volunteered many years in the church office and was active with the 50/50 Club, Heritage Circle, Women’s Society, Prime Timers and other groups in the church. She could always be found helping at church dinners or bake sales.
Claire worked in the dental department at NIH in the 1950’s. She was a homemaker and day care provider. She babysat many children from the early 1960’s to 1976. Claire started working for National Geographic in 1976. She retired in 1992. 

While Claire was a homemaker she wore many hats at different times. Claire was a den mother, room mother, brownie leader, softball coach and actively involved in the P.T.A.Claire was instrumental in raising her grandchildren. She loved them with all her heart.

Claire loved to garden and bake. She won many Grand Champion ribbons for her entries in the Damascus Community Fair from baking, canning, arts and crafts, potted plants and flowers. Her Cold Oven Pound Cake is a favorite among many in the area, it is award winning. She is also known for her caramel cake. Claire will be truly missed by all that she touched. She was an extraordinary woman.
 

Friends may call 3-5 & 7-9 p.m. Monday, March 5, 2018 at Montgomery United Methodist Church, 28325 Kemptown Road, Damascus, Maryland 20872. Funeral services will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, March 6 in the church sanctuary. Reverend John W. Rudisill, Jr. her pastor will officiate. Interment will immediately follow in Montgomery Methodist Cemetery, Damascus.

Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.molesworthwilliams.com

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