Henry Smith
Johnson
passes in 92nd year
One of Simcoe's oldest and
best-known citizens, Henry Smith Johnon, passed away at his home 252
John Street, shortly before midnight last night. He was in his 92nd
year and death came following a brief illness.
The son of David Johnson and
Hannah Griffin, Mr. Johnson was born in Windham Township, across the
road from where the present Bethel School now stands.
At the age of 13 he came to
Simcoe in 1869 and here entered the employ of the Norfolk Reformer
as "printer's devil." He continued with The
Reformer for a number of years and eventually went into partnership
with the editor, the late H. B. Donly, Mr. Johnson have charge of
the printing department.
In 1886, Mr. Johnson left The
Reformer and joined the staff of the local registry office as
Deputy-Registrar, continuing in this capacity until 1935, a total of
49 years without interruption. During the 49 years he served
under three registrars, A. J. Donly from 1886 to 1908,
W. E. Tisdale
until 1914, and Dr. W. M. McGuire until 1935, the latter and Mr. Johnson leaving the office at the same time.
Becoming an Oddfellow the
same year in which he went to the registry office, Mr. Johnson was a
prominent member of the order. He was a Past Noble Grand of
Simcoe Lodge No. 161, I.O.O.F., a Past Chief Patriarch of Norfolk
Encampment No.63, of which he was treasurer for many years; a Past
District Grand Master of Long Point District, and a member of Canton
Victoria and of Patriarchs Militant, St. Thomas. He was the first
Noble Grand of Fern Rebekah Lodge.
Since 1869 he has been a
devoted member of St. James United Church and for some time was a
member of the choir. He served as secretary of St. James Sunday
School and later was teacher of the Bible Class. Only two weeks ago
he was in attendance at Sunday School.
A valued member of the
Norfolk Historical Society, Mr. Johnson was a curator for that
organization over a long period of years. Well-versed in local
historical lore, he wrote many articles along that line, and always
maintained a keen interest in newspaper work.
His two many hobbies were
gardening and amateur photography. His garden was one of the finest
in Simcoe, and he grew several varieties of lilies, notably Regal
lilies, among other things. Even in later years he continued to be
interested in photography and his camera usually accompanied him
when he went away from home.
On 4 Jun 1878, Mr. Johnson
was married to Frances Abigail Lemon, daughter of Joseph and Matilda
Lemon of Charlotteville. Mrs. Johnson predeceased him
on
12 Jul 1943, little more than a month after they had marked their
65th wedding anniversary.
Surviving are one son, Harry
Augustine Johnson of Woodhouse Gore; and two daughters,
Mrs. W. D.
(Bessie) Walcott of Toronto, and Miss Enid Johnson at home; also two
grandsons, Robert and Gerald Johnson of Simcoe. His eldest grandson,
Flt. Sgt. Douglas Johnson, lost his life in air operations overseas,
in Nov 1942.
Prior to a private service at
the home, there will be a public service at St. James' United Church
commencing at one o'clock on Tuesday afternoon. Friends, fellow
churchmen and members of lodges are invited to attend this
service.
Following the public service
there will be a private service at 1.30 o'clock at his home, 252
John Street, under auspices of Simcoe Lodge No. 161, I.O.O.F. and
Fern Rebekah Lodge No. 50. Rev. E. W. Brearley will be in charge of
both services. Interment will be in Oakwood Cemetery. Please omit
flowers.
