Linda M. Johnson's Obituary
Linda M. Johnson, 64, of Lawrence, MA, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2025, at Lahey Medical Center in Burlington, following a brief illness. Born on April 26, 1961, in Lawrence, she was the beloved daughter of the late Richard and Shirley (Honohan) Johnson.
A lifelong resident of Lawrence, Linda was deeply rooted in her community—a true and proud Lawrencian in every sense. She dedicated much of her life to helping others, particularly individuals and families experiencing homelessness throughout Lawrence, the Merrimack Valley, and beyond. Her tireless work and compassion left a lasting impact on countless lives and organizations, including Lazarus House, Emmaus House, Casa Nueva Vida, Heading Home, the Department of Transitional Assistance (DTA), and Living Waters Family Shelter.
Linda graduated from Lawrence High School in 1979, where she stood out for her academic excellence and leadership. She continued her education at Springfield College, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and later obtained a Master’s degree in Public Administration from Tufts University.
Over the years, Linda was honored with numerous awards recognizing her service and advocacy, including being named "Woman of the Year"—a title that barely begins to capture her strength, grace, and determination to lift up those in need.
Linda’s greatest joy, however, came from her family and friends. She is survived by her loving siblings: Kathleen Johnson of Lawrence, Deborah Johnson of Methuen, Noreen McComish of Derry, NH, and Richard G. Johnson of Lawrence. She also leaves behind her cherished nephews: Sean Johnson, Dean McComish, and Andrew McComish, Her goddaughter Kamila Montanez-Berrio.
As well as many cousins, and a wide circle of dear friends she held close as family.
Linda worked as a social worker for the Department of Transitional Assistance for 20 plus years where she helped the less fortunate. Linda went on to help the homeless working in many shelters, Emmaus House, Fina House, Casa Nueva Vida, Heading Home, Lazarus House Her warmth, fierce advocacy, and unwavering belief in the dignity of all people will be missed more than words can express.
Calling hours will be held at Breen Funeral Home, 122 Amesbury St., Lawrence, MA on
Thursday, September 4, 2025 from 3pm to 7pm. Funeral mass will be at St. Theresa Church, 22 Plymouth Street, Methuen, MA at 11:00 AM. Burial to follow in Immaculate Concepcion cemetery, Lawrence, MA. For online condolences and other information please visit us at www.breenfuneralhome.com.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Linda’s memory to: Living Waters Family Shelter 102 Oxford St. Lawrence, MA 01841.
Linda’s legacy of kindness, service, and strength will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
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