NEWPORT NEWS - Anne Stephenson Johnson was delivered into the arms of our Heavenly Father on Monday, Aug. 15, 2011.

Born in Newport News, her parents were William Sr. and Gertrude Stephenson. Anne attended Newport News High School, where she first met the love of her life, and future husband of 70 years, Robert Edward Johnson. The two were married shortly after Robert graduated from the Newport News Shipbuilding Apprentice School.

Her first job was working as a secretary for the Noland Company. Anne and Bob were blessed with two sons, Gary and Ron. She had always had a love for history and eventually acquired a job with Colonial Williamsburg as a Historical Interpreter. Anne held this position for over 20 years, earning numerous awards and commendations for her distinguished service. She was regularly chosen as one of the interpreters to host visiting foreign dignitaries, and celebrities, on their visits to Williamsburg. It was obvious that she enjoyed interacting with people in this setting.

After retiring from Colonial Williamsburg, Anne began volunteering as a guide/interpreter at The Virginia Living Museum, subsequently earning a 1,000-hour service award. She also volunteered at Riverside Hospital as an aide.

Anne was an avid bridge player, and she and Robert would hone their skills almost every week in matches with their friends. Snow skiing was also one of her loves, and she would always look forward to the times spent on Bryce Mountain, where she and Robert had built a house together. Anne loved the outdoors and particularly enjoyed the frequent camping trips that the Johnson family would take. Playing golf would also become one of the passions that would stay with her for the duration of her life.

Along with Robert, Anne was a devoted member of The Hidenwood Presbyterian Church, where she developed some of her most cherished friendships in the Sunday School Chapel Class.

Anne was preceded in death by her siblings, Elsie May, Audrey, and Elmo. She is survived by her brother, William (Billy).

The family would like to express their special thanks to the Home Helpers Company, which provided excellent caregivers in the last years of Anne's very full life, and also to the staff at The Arbors Retirement Community, where she resided.

We miss you, Mama J, and know that this world is so much the richer for having hosted your sweet and loving spirit.

There will be a private graveside service for the family at Peninsula Memorial Park. A memorial service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 20 at Hidenwood Presbyterian Church. Funeral arrangements are with Peninsula Funeral Home View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.

Published in Daily Press from August 18 to August 19, 2011.    Visit Guest Book