Sometime in 1998, I met Jonnie for the first time in the hallway outside the office of Port Chester Head Start.  Through the years, Jonnie became a close friend, fellow teacher, and cheerleader for my academic endeavors.  I can still hear Jonnie say, “Vickie, dear,” the same way she greeted many people who came into her life.  Jonnie often shared words of encouragement, beautiful flowers from her garden, delicious treats, and most importantly her friendship.  She made everyone feel special.  And in reality Jonnie was the one who was so special and a gift to each of us.
I celebrate her life in which she did so many things for others and I am thankful to have had her as such an important part of my own.

Vickie McLaughlin 

Jonnie was always called "sweet little Jonnie", at least that's what I named her.  She always bought a smile to everyone's face when she entered the room.


Jonnie gave me some peppermint tea to plant in my backyard and every year they are bright and shinning just like "sweet little Jonnie".  I will always remember Jonnie and just can't forget her since she is still right in my backyard.


Rest in peace, Jonnie!

Love,

Delia Wheatley-Murphy         

Jonnie Hodgson lives in our hearts in so many ways.  She was a neighborhood and family friend over the past fifty-six years to my mother and myself. I recently reconnected with her on a collegial level and had the precious opportunity to appreciate her as an adult.  Her nurturing warmth and respect was extended freely to all.  People like Jonnie shine bright and set a higher standard for all of us in terms of being positive and a better member of the human community. 

As a former student, I remember her patience and fairness as I waited my turn for the coveted red pedal push car at recess in her back yard nursery school so many years ago.  Jonnie was one of the wonderful teachers I had growing up who inspired my teaching career. I have always considered teaching young children a privilege and a gift because they do keep you young at heart as Jonnie demonstrated each day of her life.

Jonnie will be missed and we are grateful she was a part of our lives.
Thank you, Jonnie.

Karen Husby Cook

One looks back with appreciation to the brilliant teachers, but with gratitude to those who touched our human feelings.  The curriculum is so much necessary raw material, but warmth is the vital element for the growing plant and for the soul of the child.  ~Carl Jung

Jonnie was always a ray of sunshine at Port Chester Head Start.  Her sunny disposition and her love of her job made being around her sheer joy.  Jonnie was an excellent children's disability specialist who was able to understand children's issues and needs.  Jonnie and her dear friend Vickie ran wonderful educational workshops for our parents. 
Jonnnie was most gracious bringing cookies, candies, and snacks for every holiday which lifted the staff's spirits.  Jonnie specifically bought me Mrs. Green's honey roasted or sesame sticks as a thank you for taking good care of her.  
Jonnie only had  nice words to say about people.  She had a heart of gold and a sweet smile.  May her memory be of a blessing.

Madelaine Pilpel