June Rose Johnson Green, age 95, passed away peacefully, with family by her side, June 16, 2022, at her home in Gainesville, Florida. She was born at home, February 16, 1927, to Lucius and Myrtle Holland Johnson. June was a lifelong resident of Gainesville and a fourth-generation descendant of two of Florida and Alachua County’s early pioneer families.
June started dancing as a young child. The home in which she grew up included boarders and was always full of activity and joyful moments gathered around the piano. Small town Gainesville afforded June many opportunities to perform. She taught dance classes from an early age and owned her own studio. Along with dance June was a majorette. During the 1945 and 1946 football seasons June was the sole twirler for the University of Florida, still an all-male school. In 1947 she helped organize the first UF majorette team. Always a proud Gator fan and supporter June loved football season! A cherished memory was walking on the field again in 2009 to be recognized as a 50-year Gator Booster, escorted by her grandson Ty Byron (standing in for her beloved late husband Harry).
June married the late Harris H Green, another Gainesville native, on December 26, 1946. They met when she was in the eighth grade and Harry a sophomore at Gainesville High School. A wise P.E. teacher asked his student assistant (Harry) to help June with her batting skills and the rest is history. Early courtship included Sunday evening church services (in the balcony), then walking June home, stopping along the way at Evan’s Soda Fountain for a coke float. The devoted couple married after Harry’s return from World War II, happily together until his death in 2004.
June was a lifelong Christian and active member of First United Methodist Church. She loved volunteering in the nursery, teaching Sunday School and hosting youth group functions. June joyfully shared her passions! Some favorite community activities included volunteering in the local schools her children and grandson attended, helping at the Woman’s Club Spring Pilgrimage in the Duck Pond area, choreographing musicals for the Gainesville Community Playhouse, UF and teaching a musical theatre class at the university. June was a member of the Thomas Center Associates, Gainesville Woman’s Club and Dance Masters of America among other organizations. Finally, June was a cherished wife, mother, grandmother, aunt and friend. Her greatest pleasure was spending time with family, especially her grandson Ty and sweet collies, Zadie and Monroe. She loved the water, relishing weekends with relatives in Crystal River and Crescent Beach.
A true optimist throughout life June found beauty in everything and saw the best in everyone. Even in the final days she enjoyed car rides with her daughters, tap dancing along to the 1940’s music on the radio.
June is preceded in death by her parents, husband Harris H Green, son Harry, Jr and sister Ettiedean Curry. She is survived by daughters Karen, Pat and Joy (Tom Byron), and grandson Ty Byron. A special thanks to dear family friend Clarkson Cantrell. In lieu of flowers please give to the charity of your choice or just reach out to someone in need of encouragement, a simple word or smile to brighten their day!
A private family graveside service will be held at Evergreen Cemetery.
Arrangements are in the care of MILAM FUNERAL AND CREMATION SERVICES, 311 S. Main St., Gainesville, FL 32601 352-376-5361 www.milamfh.com
