Doralie Estella Wakefield Johnson of Mesa, AZ; passed away on Thursday, December 10, 2015, surrounded by her loving family.
Dorie was born on February 1, 1932 in Baraboo, WI. She was one of four children born to Lawrence and Estella Wakefield. She is preceded in death by her parents, older brother Lawrence (Larry) Wakefield, and her husband of 56 years, John Johnson, Jr.
Dorie and John moved from Wisconsin to Arizona in 1958 and all their children still live in the Phoenix area. She is survived by her brother Bill (Joan) Wakefield, sister Lois Anderson; children: John L. (Mimi) Johnson, Linette (Robbie) Phillips, Kyle (Sherri) Johnson, Meri (Chris) Wiley and Jennifer (Tracy) Rothstein. Her beloved grandchildren are Garrett (Leah) Johnson, Andrew (Andrew King) Johnson, Bryan Phillips, Daniel Phillips, Eric Johnson, Sarah (Christopher) Perry, Christopher Azimi, Caitlin (Cody) Jones and Abby Wiley, She had three Great Grandchildren.
Dorie was a talented watercolor artist, member and President of the Tempe Art League when she taught classes and sold many of her beautiful paintings. She and John created a successful custom framing business in Gilbert, Frames by Dorie, of which she was very proud. She expressed her artistic talents through drawing, painting, sewing and needlework. She also participated in a Celtic re-enactment group with her daughters, demonstrating at the Arizona Renaissance Festival. She enjoyed many adventures to faraway places, including England, Scotland, Ireland, Italy and Australia.
For the last few years she resided at the Citadel in Mesa, AZ and cherished the many friends she made there, especially her “breakfast ladies” and Bingo friends.
“Mothers hold their child’s hand for a moment and their heart for a lifetime”
There will be a private family ceremony. Special thanks to the staff at Banner Baywood Hospital. In lieu of flowers, memorial may be made to Hospice of the Valley.
Meri and Family, sending love and peace to you. Your Mom was surely a great influence, as she raised children that make a difference in our world. Warm regards.
To Mrs. Johnson’s family, I’m very sorry for your loss. I wanted to offer you some comfort that I’ve found in the Bible. In John 11:25 Jesus said “I am the resurrection and the life. The one who exercises faith in me, even though he dies, will come to life.” It’s my hope that you can draw comfort and strength from this promise that we can see our loved ones we have lost in death again. (Isaiah 25:8)
Hello,
I was doing an internet search on myself and found this. My name is Christopher Azimi. I was wondering if there was another person with my name or if this was possibly family that I was unaware I have? Maybe someone can help clarify. Thank You and sorry for your loss. I can be reached at sacautopro@gmail.com