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Gladys (“Sis”) M. Johnson, 90, formerly of Kensington, passed away peacefully, Monday, January 19, 2026, at Masonicare Health Center in Wallingford.
Gladys was born in New Britain, December 5, 1935, a daughter of the late Chester Johnson and Elsie (Olson) Johnson, graduated Berlin High School and had been a Kensington resident for many years. Gladys joined the Sisters of Mercy after high school and was later employed by them at St. Joseph College in West Hartford. She went on to be a manager at The McAuley Mercy Community until her retirement. Gladys was an active and dedicated parishioner of St. Paul Church in Kensington, where she was a lecturer and an active volunteer. Besides being a devout parishioner who attended mass daily, Gladys enjoyed her time quilting, gardening, reading, and birdwatching. Gladys was also keenly connected to nature and prized her frequent adventures to the Northeast Kingdom of Vermont with her lifelong companion, Donald.
Gladys was a beloved aunt, companion, friend, and neighbor to all who knew her. She brought joy to those around her through her genuine kindness, laughter, and love. Gladys cherished her time with family and friends and was sure to light up the room at all family gatherings. Despite being hearing impaired, she always made whomever she was interacting with feel heard, understood, and loved.
She was predeceased by her brothers, Thomas J. Farrell and John W. Farrell, a sister-in-law, Fannie A. Farrell, and her longtime companion Donald J. Hrenko. She is survived by many loving nieces and nephews, and their children.
Her family will receive relatives and friends at the Berlin Memorial Funeral Home, 96 Main St., Kensington, Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 9:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:30am at St. Paul Church, 461 Alling St., Berlin. Inurnment will follow in Maple Cemetery, Berlin. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be sent to the Alzheimer's Association, 10 Executive Dr Suite 202, Farmington, CT 06032. For online condolences visit: www.BerlinMemorialFuneralHome.com
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