We are saddened by the passing of our precious angel, Lillian, when she was gently and peacefully taken by our Heavenly Father to His Glorious Home on March 26, 2024. Lillian is survived by her loving and devoted husband of 56 years, Gary Johnson, “the kindest man she knew,” beloved daughter, Sherie Lene’ Johnson, sister, Patricia Marie Groce, brother Charles Robert Ruffo and wife, Regina, as well as her adored nieces and nephews.

She lived a life of grace according to her morals and values with impeccable integrity, exemplifying a bygone era. Lillian was a true lady of graciousness and gentility, influenced by her mother’s dignity. She admired her mother’s courage and strength, especially at the heart-wrenching loss of her dearest beloved father at a young age. She revered and felt blessed by her loving parents, Jane and Carmelo Ruffo, who nurtured their family with the same warmth and love they received as children. She was grateful for the unforgettable and precious memories shared by her family.

A product of “The Greatest Generation” that is considered to have ever existed in this nation, feelings of romance and nostalgia transported Lillian into the future from that era. She was quite the mastermind of storytelling, captivating children and capturing all of us as she regaled and delighted us with beloved memories of our childhood, full of wonder and playful pranks. She stirred our imaginations with childhood dreams and carefree times , shared also with dear cousins so special and close to her heart.

Lillian is truly unforgettable, and we are forever thankful for how she impacted and enhanced our lives in her special way. Her beauty, charm and quick wit will never be extinguished in our minds. To sanctify her memory would be to miss out on the very core of her being. She was wonderfully mischievous with an infectious sense of humor. We all enjoyed her warmth and God-given sensitivity as she brightened our lives and touched us by her calming and endearing spirit. Her dedication and devotion to family were profoundly powerful as well as the beauty of her unwavering faith in God. She gave of herself selflessly and was considerate to those in need.

Family and tradition were paramount to Lillian and she shared the joy of the enchanting holiday season with loved ones. We all enjoyed a wondrous fairyland of magical memories so dearly cherished.

Lillian worked alongside her brother in the family business, where she also enjoyed a remarkable camaraderie with longtime and loyal staff. She was always genuinely interested in the many seasons and phases of their lives, and she was truly loved.

Her reverent attitude toward family was evident by the exceptionally close bond shared with her loving brother, “Charlie,” and by her inseparable relationship with her sister, Patricia.

We are blessed and loved having this wonderful person in our life. She was our treasured gift. As we say goodbye for now, her loving memory and spirit will linger in our hearts forever until that day we all meet joyously and embrace her and look upon her radiant face and beautiful smile again so full of rapture and love.

The poem “Ithaca” by Greek poet Constantine P. Cavafy was recited at the funeral Mass of Jacqueline Kennedy on May 23, 1994, by Maurice Tempelsman. He added in his own poignant words:

"And now the journey is over, too short, alas, too short.

It was filled with adventure and wisdom, laughter and love, gallantry and grace.

So farewell, farewell."

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