Johanna Bossard

Augusta, GA – Johanna Kearney Bossard, a loving wife of sixty-six years to the late Donald Robert Bossard, entered into eternal rest on Friday, March 15, 2024, at 91 years of age.

Johanna was born March 18, 1932, in Augusta, Georgia and was the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Kearney. A lifelong learner, she graduated from Mount Saint Joseph’s in Augusta before attending Furman University where she studied journalism. After completing her traditional education, Johanna got her pilot license and regularly flew a Piper Tri-Pacer taildragger. It was while flying that she met Donald Bossard, giving him his check ride upon his return from WWII.

Donald was a career military professional, and they lived in New York, Arizona, and California before returning to Augusta to raise a family with their two sons, John and Tom.  While rearing two spirited boys, Johanna continued to pursue her passions as a volunteer with the American Red Cross teaching water safety classes and training many of the lifeguards in Augusta in the late 70’s through the ‘90’s. Johanna was also a dynamic and faithful member of St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church.

Generations ahead of her time in many ways, Johanna loved physical activities and was an avid walker and swimmer. She spent many an hour taking aerobics classes at the local YMCA and walking the tree-lined streets of Augusta. In the summer months she was often found at Brynwood pool, chatting and swimming laps between cigarette breaks. Though her family was the center of her world, Johanna loved all dogs and they too loved her, especially Jughead, Furgus and Mr. Murphy who were fortunate to be her beloved four-legged pets.

Johanna is survived by her sons, John Bossard and Tom Bossard (deceased husband Leonard Cherry). John and Tom are grateful for the wonderful care their mom has received for the last three years as a resident at Benton House of Augusta and from the Visiting Angels.   

The memorial Mass will be celebrated on Wednesday, March 20, 2024, at 2:00 PM at St. Mary on the Hill Catholic Church. A rosary will be recited at 1:30 PM, prior to the Mass. Memorial contributions may be made to Catholic Social Services: 811 12 Street, Augusta, GA 30901. 

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com