Lois Ann (Ossie) Johnson

Lois Ann (Ossie) Johnson, of Utica, passed into the Hands of the Lord on Saturday, April 2, 2011 at the St. Joseph Nursing Home with her loving family by her side. Born in Fort Fairfield, Maine, Lois was the daughter of the late Kelly and Mamie (George) Ossie. Raised and educated locally, she was a graduate of T.R. Proctor High School. She furthered her studies at Oneonta College majoring in Education. She was married to James Johnson who passed away in 1955. Lois began her career as a teacher at Blessed Sacrament School. In addition, she was a field case worker with the Oneida County Department of Social Services prior to retirement after 30 years of truly dedicated service. Her trustworthiness, unmatched understanding, and endless sharing of herself were all key ingredients that made up her cherished personality. Lois knew that God intended all of us to aspire to our own abilities and mature into a masterpiece of our own goodness. Lois was admired by her daughter as a woman of great values. Her journey was enriched through her tireless devotion to watching the Eternal World Television Network, a program dedicated to help people grow in their love and understanding of God and His infinite mercy. Lois had a special place in her heart for her beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren, and ‘Nonnie’ was a precious name to her. She also had a soft spot for the New York Yankees. She practiced her faith at Historic Old St. John's Church. Lois is survived by her daughter and her "favorite" son-in-law, Priscilla J. and Angelo Pallaria of New Hartford; her grandchildren, Rosemary and Vincent Brewer of Long Island, and Robert and Noelle Pallaria of CA; and “her world”, her great-grandchildren, Alec, Jordan, Payton, and Maxwell Brewer; and Sofia Pallaria. In addition, she leaves numerous nieces and nephews, (especially acknowledging the love and devotion of her nieces Marion Davie and Maureen Crider, and their husbands Brad and Cliff and children who were incredibly loyal and wonderful caregivers), Theresa and Jerry Hughes, Susan and Al Zajac, Patricia and Brian Kelly, and Richard Ossie, Jr.; great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, and former sister-in-law, Floy. She was predeceased by her sisters and brothers-in-law, Selma J. and Lyle C. Fancett, and Patricia and Albert Abdo; and her brother, Richard J. Ossie, Sr. The family expresses sincere appreciation to Dr. Arul Kannan; the Carmelite Sisters, nurses, aides, and staff of the 2nd floor at the St. Joseph Nursing Home who were so incredibly compassionate and embracing to Lois and her family during her stay. A special thank you is offered to Sr. Carmelita for her spiritual love. The family will honor and celebrate Lois’ life at a private time. Interment will take place in Calvary Cemetery at the convenience of the family. Arrangements have been entrusted to the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave.