Nancy Jean Johnson

Nancy Jean Johnson, age 80, passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday, February 15, 2024, at Baptist Medical Center South in Jacksonville, Florida. Nancy was born on September 15, 1943, in Chicago, Illinois, to Ashley Rolfe and Jean McDonnell Rolfe. They relocated to Palo Alto, CA, during her childhood and teenager years. She has often been described as wild and rebellious during this period, a trait that some would argue never left her. Combine that with flowing blonde hair and long legs, and you get a recipe for adventure. She graduated from Palo Alto High School in 1961, and went on to earn a business degree from San Jose State. By then she had also developed a particular affinity for men and partying. Nancy gave an admirable 47 years to the airline industry as a flight attendant, working primarily for United Airlines. Her dedication and commitment to service shone through as she made her way to places such as Shanghai, London, and Sydney. She loved to share her passion for travel with her family, and took every opportunity she could to help them see the world. While Nancy undoubtedly experienced a myriad of adventures during her time as a flight attendant, the journey of becoming a mother brought a whole new kind of adventure. She first gained the title of 'mommy' in 1978 with the birth of her son, followed by a daughter in 1983. With all of life's ups and downs, her love and devotion to provide for her children was unwavering and constant. This continued as she became a grandmother to 6 over the years. I can write with great assurance that some of her most treasured moments were indeed with her children and grandchildren, and know she has carried them with her. Fiercely strong, independent, and loyal, Nancy has left an imprint on individuals and communities. She had a huge heart and loved with all she had. Many have lovingly described her as a 'force to be reckoned with'. If someone said 'take this path', she would take a different one. If she was told something couldn't be done, she would say 'watch me!'. She forged her own way and fought her own battles, right to the very last breath. Nancy enjoyed musicals (movies and theatre), staying active, and spending time with loved ones. You could find her anywhere there was water - particularly the beach or pool. She took up water volleyball in recent years, and it truly made her heart happy. When she wasn't at home living her life to the fullest, she was on a luxury cruise ship exploring and relaxing. She loved discovering new places and was a seasoned world traveler (even outside of work!) Nancy is predeceased by her parents; Ashley Rolfe and Jean McDonnell Rolfe, and former husband Ronald Mewshaw. Nancy is survived by her children Jedediah Robert Johnson and Ashley Jean Moores, six grandchildren, sister Marjorie Ann Paulsen, step-mother Lydia Rolfe, significant other Walter Cunningham, and the father of their children, Robert Dale Johnson. A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, February 24, at 2 p.m. at her former residence of 877 Tree Side Lane, Ponte Vedra, FL. The family would like to extend a very special thank you to the community hospice team at Baptist South Medical Center, for taking such amazing care of her in her final days.

Nancy Jean Johnson

September 15, 1943 - February 15, 2024