Obituary of Eleanor S. Johnson

“Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us every day….unseen, unheard,
but always near, still loved, still missed, and very dear.”

Eleanor Sylvia Johnson, age 86, of Staten Island, New York, passed away peacefully on
December 3, 2026, surrounded by love.
Born on July 17, 1939, in Staten Island, New York, Eleanor was the cherished daughter
of John Henry and Sylvia Degroat. She grew up in a large, close-knit family and carried
those values of love and togetherness throughout her life.
In June of 1960, Eleanor married her soulmate, Autry Johnson, and together they built a
beautiful life filled with devotion and joy. She was a proud mother to Autry Neil Johnson
and Stacey Tina Johnson and, and her greatest happiness came from her family.
Eleanor’s love extended to her seven grandchildren—Neily Johnson Jr, Nikki Johnson,
Sherell Johnson, Anthony Johnson, Paulie Johnson, James Marc, and Ty'Son Lawton-
Johnson—and her great-grandchildren, Zylah Marc, Leilani Johnson and Paulie
Johnson Jr. who brought her endless smiles.
Eleanor graduated from McKee High School in 1956 and dedicated 28 years of service
to Chase Manhattan Bank before retiring. She was admired for her strong work ethic
and warm personality, which touched everyone she met.
Beyond her career, Eleanor embraced life with joy and passion. She loved the simple
pleasures—bowling with friends, spontaneous trips to Atlantic City, and savoring meals
at Red Lobster. Family traditions, like playing Corners, always brought laughter and
connection. Music was another source of happiness for Eleanor—Jahiem was one of
her favorite artists, and whenever his song “Just in Case” played, her face would light
up as she danced with pure joy, filling the room with love, laughter, and unforgettable
energy.
Eleanor is survived by her daughter Stacey, her beloved grandchildren and great-
grandchild, and her brother Marshall Degroat. She now joins in eternal peace with her
son Autry Neil Johnson, her parents, and her siblings: Marilyn Carter, Barbra Illidge,
Sarah Henry, Constance King, Parcella Degroat, Henry John Degroat, Christy Degroat,
and Georgie Degroat.
Her life was a testament to love, family, and joy. Eleanor will be deeply missed but
forever remembered by all who were blessed to know her.