Constance JOHNSON
Constance “Connie” Gay Johnson passed away peacefully on October 2, 2023, at the age of 80. Born in LeRoy, Saskatchewan, Connie grew up on a family farm but always had big dreams of living in the city. She pursued her passions by attending business college in Regina and working for SaskTel in Saskatoon before ultimately settling in Kingston, Ontario in 1966. In Kingston, she embarked on a long and diverse career at Bell Canada. Even in retirement, Connie continued to seek new challenges and returned to the workforce at the age of 65 as an Administrative Assistant with Assante Wealth Management, where she worked for another 7 years.
Although Connie faced health challenges, including a recent diagnosis of breast cancer, she remained resilient and active. She took up cycling in her early 60s and only stopped a couple of years ago. Throughout her life, Connie found joy in both her wide social circle and in moments of solitude with a good book. She was passionate about music, dance parties, live concerts, theater, and enjoying delicious food. Connie loved exploring the world, and her travels included hiking in Tuscany, cycling in the Netherlands, and cooking classes in Toulouse. One of her greatest sources of happiness was the 50+ years she spent with her beloved partner, Ross, and the cherished memories they created together on Treasure Island.
Connie was predeceased by Ross Aylesworth, her parents Gus and Evelyn Johnson, and her dear sister Dori. She will be fondly remembered by her sisters, Darlene (Jerry) McGrath, Trina McGrath (Alex Roach), Jami Dietrich (Shawn), Jay McGrath (Brucie), Donna Johnson (Shayne Dark), Dori (Alan) Thompson, Sarah Thompson (Lewis), Erica Thompson (Sean), and Robert Thompson. She will also be deeply missed by Marc Aylesworth (Amanda), Olivia Aylesworth (Reid), and Hilary Aylesworth (Dylan). As Thomas Campbell wrote, “To live in the hearts we leave behind is not to die.”
A celebration of Connie’s life will be held at The Great Hall at Fort Henry in Kingston, Ontario on Wednesday, November 22, 2023, from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Cremation has already taken place. In memory of Connie, those who wish to make a donation are encouraged to contribute to organizations that support the less fortunate in the community, such as Lion Hearts, Martha’s Table, Lunch by George, or St. Vincent de Paul.