MEREDITH - Agnes Irene (Johnson) Blackey, 98, of Rt.104 Meredith, passed away peacefully at her home on January 5, 2019 surrounded by her family.
Agnes was born in Tamworth, NH on January 12, 1921, the daughter of Harry S. Johnson and Alice E. (Drake) Johnson. She grew up in the Tamworth area, graduating from Tamworth High School in 1938.
During World War II, Agnes worked at The South Portland Ship Yard in Portland Maine as a welder. It was a time in her life of which she spoke often and was proud of her contribution to the war effort.
In the 1950's she and her husband Lloyd owned and operated The Center Harbor Garage and Restaurant on Rt. 25, and were also the care takers of The Geneva Point Camp in Moultonboro.
In the 1960's she owned and operated Meredith Dry Cleaners on Main Street in Meredith where Frog Rock Tavern is located today. She was a well known seamstress and continued to take in sewing long after retirement. It was not uncommon for Agnes to work multiple jobs to provide for her family. Throughout the years she was employed at Scott and William's in Laconia, Amatex corporation in Meredith, The Meredith Steam Laundry and Annalee Dolls to name a few. She was also a bus driver for both Frank McIntyre in Center Harbor, and Brad Sprague in Meredith for over 20 years. After retirement, she continued to stay busy caring for people in need of assistance in their homes and formed many lifelong friendships through doing so.
Agnes was known for her sharp wit, strong Constitution and active lifestyle. She had a great affection for the outdoors that continued throughout her life. She enjoyed hunting with her husband and was especially fond of fishing, continuing to do so well into her 80's. In later years she could often be found sitting beneath her gazebo, enjoying nature and welcoming visitors. She was the family matriarch and a dear friend to many. Her daily presence in their lives will be greatly missed.
Agnes is survived by two daughters; Patricia A. (Blackey) Hurd and Catherine A. (Blackey) Jenkerson both of Meredith and One sister; Virginia C. Thomas of Tamworth. She is predeceased by a daughter Elizabeth E. (Blackey) Sherman of Concord NH. Her husband of 56 years Lloyd J. Blackey of Moultonboro, three sisters; Marian C. Ross, Beatrice M. Ryan, Eunice C. Breaux. Two brothers; Forest W. Johnson and Marshall B. Johnson
Agnes leaves behind 11 Grandchildren, 28 Great-Grandchildren and 29 Great Great-Grandchildren as well as many Nieces and Nephews.
The family would like to extend their thanks to the caring staff of The Lakes Region VNA and Hospice.
A graveside service will be held in the spring at Red Hill Cemetery on Bean Road in Moultonboro.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made in Agnes's memory to the NH Humane Society.