Margaret Johnson, age 86, of Canisteo, NY, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2026, surrounded by her five loving children.

She was born on September 3, 1939, and lived a life grounded in family, hard work, creativity, and community. Margaret was a devoted mother to five children and a proud grandmother to fourteen grandchildren and twenty great-grandchildren.

Margaret worked at The Big Elms Restaurant for almost 20 years before continuing her career at Alfred State College, where she later retired. She was known for her strong work ethic, reliability, and pride in her work, forming lasting relationships throughout her years of service.

In addition to her work, Margaret also supported her family through cookie baking, built around a cherished family recipe she perfected over time, making hundreds of dozens each year. She was also a talented seamstress, always finding ways to turn a basic piece of fabric into something beautiful, often on short notice or with very little time - skills that reflected her creativity, resourcefulness, and dedication to caring for others.

Margaret was deeply involved in her community and spent many years volunteering, always willing to help wherever she was needed.

She is survived by her children: April (John) Lawrence, Sonja (Andy) Robinson, Kelly (Ron) Green, Blake (Kim) Johnson, and Deanne (Tim Bennett) Hatter; her siblings: John (Robyn) Smith, Kathy Ferguson, Carolyn (John) Criss, and Bonnie (Tom) Welch; along with all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Ronald Johnson; her parents, Bernard and Florence Smith; and her father, Charles Kelly.

Margaret will be remembered for her kindness, determination, creativity, and unwavering dedication to her family. Her legacy lives on through the generations she raised and the many lives she touched.

Calling hours will be held on Monday from 3:00-6:00 p.m. at the Bender- Brown & Powers Funeral Home 354 Canisteo Street in Hornell, NY. A Catholic Funeral Mass will take place on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Ann's Church in Hornell, followed by a luncheon.

To send a remembrance please visit www.brownandpowersfuneralhomes.com or on Facebook @ Brown Powers FH.

Memorial contributions can be made to the Food Pantry at Catholic Charities 12 Allen Street Hornell NY 14843. Please specify Food Pantry.