Simone Johnson Obituary

I was thinking about her just yesterday! I was remembering how she tried to describe the use of the subjunctive tense, that it was like a feeling. It's like seeing a mist through gauze. For some reason, I have always remembered that. I was her fortunate student at WU.

I am so saddened by this news. I was fortunate to have been in Mrs. Johnson's classes & then majored in French. She was so interesting & inspirational! I am glad we could stay in touch over the years, & remained close friends. She was so much fun to visit & I still continued to learn from her. She even taught me how to really make an omelette.
I want to extend my deepest condolences to Niki & Sylvie & family. It was so nice that you were there close by all these years. Whenever I visited your mom, she shared stories about you all she was so proud of her family! I will always hold your mother close in my heart. I wish you all peace. (Also, I would love to talk to you, but don't have your number (785 633-3900).

Pat Gowan, Topeka

I studied with Madame Johnson at Washburn for over two years, not a French major, but an avid pupil. That was 40 years ago and, although only seeing her a couple times by chance over the years, I still think of her often and fondly, even quoting two of her favorite sayings to someone just a few weeks ago; "Wellll, you could say that, but people would smile" and "NO, you must never say that! People would laugh!" Despite not continuing my French education -- and, sadly, not visiting France (yet, but someday) -- she shaped my outlook on life; and my posture. It was due to her influence that our younger son studied French for five years and had an amazing trip between High School and college, and I have a love of the language to share with our other daughter-in-law who, curiously, was a French teacher. Madame's grace and demeanor were an inspiration in so many ways. She was a grande dame in the best sense of the words and "vraiment formidable". (I tried using proper French quotation marks, but the site would not accept them. Zut!)

My sincere condolences to her family. She had a very long and accomplished life, so there is joy in that, but I am sure her loss is deeply felt. Take comfort in knowing that she lives on in her students' hearts.

Very great lady and wonderful teacher. Condolences to Sylvie, Niki and the family.

In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you Miss Simone hi my dear well I just heard have you passing I wish that I could have been there with you just know that you have a special place in my heart I remember the first day that you came to Brandon Woods you didn't want to be there and you would kind of cranky to everyone when I came into your room you are kind of grouchy that is when we sat down and talked with each other and became very close you will not hardly let anybody else to take care of you but me I am grateful for that I love you very much I think of you all the time as of every day when we were together at Brandon Woods here is a kiss and hug for you rest in peace my wonderful lovely lady I love you so much all my love Bonnie

Simone was a very special person who accomplished a great deal in her life and remained full of vital energy until just the past few years. While I mourn her passing, I know her quality of life was no longer the same. She was a strong force in her family and her passing will be very significant. I only knew her in old age, butI found her to be an amazing person.