Stefanie had uncompromising standards, an ever sharp and discerning mind, and a gentle and forgiving spirit. Like so many women of diminutive stature, it was all-too easy for people to underestimate the laser-sharp intelligence that was always the underpinning of her soft-spoken, humble demeanor. Her high school yearbook nailed it with "Tiny, but she is fierce." Stefanie epitomized grace in her exchanges and a tenacious grasp of her convictions. When questioned about her "stubbornness," she would smile broadly and say, "No, persistence." Her frequent, lovely, smile revealed her worldly sense of humor and irony, which, in turn, revealed her wisdom. We have extraordinary things to be thankful for in her vast contributions to the life and vibrant history of Strafford. Stefanie Johnston, 1939-2022. Blessings, love, and boundless gratitude. Stefanie asked that for anyone interested in making a contribution to a cause that it be to the signal cause of her life, the Strafford Historical Society, PO Box 100, Strafford, VT 05072.

The Board and friends of the SHS are grieved to report the death of Stefanie Johnston on January 18, 2022. Stef and her husband of 65 years, Bob, were literally the life-blood and substance of the SHS. Stef was a native of Haverford PA, and a "brainy Bryn Mawr girl," as they were always known, who went on to a career in education and, later, special ed. After decades as distinguished educators, she and Bob moved to Strafford from Thetford in 1996. Together, they went, as fully committed volunteers, full tilt into expanding every dimension of the Strafford Historical Society.