It is with deep sorrow and much love that the family of Gwendolyn Brush Johannessen wishes to announce her passing on October 23, 2021, in Sugar Land, Texas at the age of 86. Our Mother, Grandmother, Great-grandmother, Aunt, Sister-in-Law and Friend will be lovingly remembered by her three sons, Roy L. Johannessen, Jr. and wife, Cathleen; Christian M. Johannessen; and Eric G. Johannessen and wife, Heather; three grandchildren, Amy J. Netardus, Caitlyn E. Johannessen, and James Eric Johannessen; two great-grandchildren, Vivian Anne Netardus and Rory N. Meaux; her niece, Catherine F. Bellino and nephew, Richard D. Fisher; sisters-in-law, Barbara C. Johannessen, Christina J. Mittlebrun, Evelyn J. Charter and their families; and special long-time friends, Beatrice and Tom Handshuh. Gwen was predeceased by her loving husband of 31 years, Roy L. Johannessen, Sr.; her beloved parents, George and Mildred Law Brush; sister, Brenda B. Fisher; and Nephew Bruce Fisher. Born May 26, 1935, in White Plains, Gwen was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She graduated from White Plains High School and the University of Rochester with a B.A. in English. Gwen's lifelong love affair with art, reading and words led her often to create beautifully illustrated poetry to amuse and uplift family and friends during holidays and special occasions, or with a wry turn of phrase or unexpected play on words, Gwen delivered good-natured but uproarious roasts of her bowling league pals or other favorite targets. She passed on her intellectual curiosity and love of learning to all, including her children and grandchildren through music, books and painting. Mom volunteered often for school events, Cub Scouts and fundraisers. She was an avid sports woman, adept at golf and tennis, and a great fan whether in the stands or in front of the TV. Gwen's love of people was a professional asset during a long retail career, including as a Sales Associate at Dillard's in Houston and Bryan, Texas until her retirement in 2001. Her deep empathy for others was infused in all that she did, holding everything together and making peace with all when it was needed most. Gwen left a life full of examples of ongoing love and caring for others, often at her own expense or without concern for her own needs. In keeping with her wishes to be reunited with her beloved husband in burial, Gwen was cremated, and her ashes will be laid to rest in the family plot in Union Cemetery, Rte 9G, Hyde Park, NY, with graveside services at 11 AM, on Thursday, May 26th. In lieu of flowers, the Johannessen family respectfully requests memorial donations be made to the Staatsburg Library, 70 Old Post Rd, Staatsburg, NY 12580-0397. (www.staatsburglibrary.org/support-us) The family wishes to extend a special thank you to the staff at Legacy at Long Meadow assisted living facility for their care and compassion. Local arrangements are under the direction of Sweet's Funeral Home, Hyde Park. To send an online condolence, or for directions, please visit Gwen's obituary page at www.sweetsfuneralhome.com