Obituary of Irene Teresia Johnson

Irene Teresia Johnson, a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away on December 29, 2024, at the age of 97 in Boonton, NJ. She was a remarkable woman whose life was defined by strength, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to those she loved.

Born on August 12^th, 1927, Irene lived a full and meaningful life, one that was marked by both hard work and deep personal connections. She married Carl Johnson, the love of her life, and together they built a beautiful family. Irene was an incredibly devoted wife and mother, and her love for her family was her greatest source of pride. She and Carl shared a bond that lasted through the years, and even after his passing in 1999, Irene continued to cherish the life they had built together, particularly the home in Pine Brook that Carl had so lovingly constructed for her. It was there that Irene found comfort and peace.

In her professional life, Irene was a loyal and dedicated employee of Macy's, where she worked as a Customer Service Representative at the Willowbrook location for 25 years.   Her kindness and attention to detail made her a favorite among customers and coworkers alike. Irene took great pride in her work.

Irene’s legacy extended beyond her professional life. One of her greatest pleasures was gardening; she loved being outside, nurturing the earth, and watching her flowers and plants bloom.  She also loved the beach and enjoyed travelling. 

Irene was also known for her sharp eye for fashion. She was never seen without being impeccably dressed, always with her signature style that never went unnoticed. She took great pride in her appearance, seeing it as an important part of living life with confidence and grace and believed that every day was an occasion to look her best.

But perhaps Irene’s most defining characteristic was her independence.  She lived alone for 25 years after Carl’s passing and could manage anything that came her way.

Her strong-willed nature was both admired and, at times, exasperating to those who knew her best. Irene was a woman who liked things her way, and she made no secret of it—whether it was the way the house was arranged or the details of a family event. She was, without question, particular and stubborn, but those qualities only made her more unique. Irene lived life on her own terms, never compromising on what she valued most: her family, her home, and her independence. Her strength was an inspiration to all who knew her.

She leaves behind a profound legacy of love, resilience, and pride in her family. Irene is survived by her children: Carol (Frank) Matullo, Nancy George, Jane (Robert) Malavarca and Tracy Palmieri; 10 grandchildren; and 18 great-grandchildren, all of whom she adored with all her heart. She was also a friend to many, offering her support, wisdom, and love throughout the years.

Friends and family are welcome to join the family for a Funeral Mass to honor Irene’s life. Mass will be held Friday, January 3^rd, 2025, at 10AM at St. Mary`s Church, Denville NJ. Interment will be held privately. Irene’s spirit, her passion for life, and her deep love for her family will live on in the hearts of all who knew her. Please take this time to share a memory, leave a condolence, or light a candle to continue to let Irene`s light shine!

Rest in peace, Irene. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten. Your love and strength will continue to inspire us all.