Marilyn Mae (Dresser) Johnson, 94, died on July 8, 2023 following an extended illness.

Marilyn was born in Greenfield MA and graduated from Northfield High School in 1947. She left

her family home and dairy farm a year later seeking employment in the Boston area, where she

met her husband, Al, with whom she shared 3 children, 6 grandchildren, and 3 great-

grandchildren.

'Mal' was a talented seamstress who created her own business so that she could work from

home, long before anyone knew what that was. She created a following and outfitted many

homes and businesses with her custom-made curtains, cushion covers, and many other

creations. She could sew anything, including many wedding gowns, bridesmaid and prom

dresses, bed covers, and anything that could be made out of fabric.

Ma was an independent and determined woman, who lived her life with grit and humility. Her

children were most important to her, and she was known to drop anything to help them in

anyway, anytime, anywhere. Mom valued family and was happiest when the whole family was

together. She cultivated strength in her family, and especially encouraged her daughters to be

brave and tenacious as well. Once her own children were grown, there were grandchildren to

care for, and Gramma was always there. She was an essential part of all 6 of their childhoods,

spread over 36 years of sleepovers, rides, and baked goods. She taught them all to 'treat others

the way you would like to be treated,' and supported their growth with endless supplies of

homemade bread, 'Mayma rolls', cookies, brownies, muffins, dinners, and hugs. Her recipes are

part of her enduring legacy.

Feisty always, Marilyn was loved by many residents and staff at Cape Regency, where she spent

her final days, with her best friend Kathy. We will all miss our ice cream outings with her.

Marilyn is survived by her son Eric Johnson and wife Patricia of Marstons Mills, MA; daughter

Lori Bechard and husband Glenn of West Barnstable, MA; son-in-law Clyde Brazil of North

Dartmouth, MA; grandchildren Kyle Johnson, Kurt and wife Lauren Johnson, Joshua Cushman,

Andrew Brazil, Corine Bechard, Samuel Bechard; and great-grandchildren Bradley, Adam and

Andrea Johnson; and numerous extended family members. She was predeceased by her

daughter Lisa Brazil and ex-husband Alfred Johnson.

A family celebration of Marilyn's life will be held privately.