of Chelsea, Michigan. Virginia Ann (Hathaway) Johnson passed away in her home on Nov. 8th at the age of 89. One of the "Greatest Generation", Jinny was born September 16th, 1926 in Holt, MI and lived through the era of the great depression and WWII. At a post war dance in Six Lakes, her beautiful auburn hair attracted the notice of her true love, Gilford and they were married on September 7th, 1946. Jinny and Gil spent their honeymoon years in Leland, an area she loved to revisit. They moved several times before finally settling in Chelsea the summer of 1968. She was an assistant sportswear buyer for Milliken's Department store in Traverse City. She also worked several years in the Chelsea State Farm office.
Jinny was a born leader and organizer. Energetic and spirited, she served as President for several local groups including The Womens Club of Chelsea, United Methodist Sarah Circle and The Scarlett Belles Red Hat Society. Jinny was a member of the Chelsea First United Methodist Church. She acted as a Girl Scout leader for each of her daughters. She was an avid reader, a talented baker and decorator. Jinny loved watching sports, especially U of M, playing cards and above all, her family. A true matriarch, she gathered them together for numerous reunions, holidays and retreats. Her unfailing support and lively sense of fun will be sadly missed by her family.
She is survived by five children: Nancy (Tom) Mumby of California, Sally (Steve) Miklos of Leland, Maggie (William) Miller of Linden, Perry Johnson of Traverse City and Sara (Mark) Oetting of Texas; 15 grandchildren and 5 great-grandchildren.
Funeral services were held Friday, November 13, 1:00 pm, at Cole Funeral Chapel, Chelsea, with Rev. Joy Barrett officiating. Burial followed at Oak Grove East Cemetery, Chelsea. Visitation was held at the funeral home on Thursday from 4-7 pm. Memorial contributions may be made to Chelsea District Library.