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Las Vegas, NV: February 27, 2017
Lesley Jeanne Banks Johnson, 62, of Las Vegas, passed away suddenly February 27, 2017, in Las Vegas. She is survived by her loving husband, of 38 years, Ronald Johnson; daughter and son-in-law, Stephanie and Jon Barger; brother-in-law and his wife, Larry and Pat Johnson; brother-in-law, Bruce Johnson; aunt, Jeanne Williams; cousin, Christine Wilson; and too many dear friends to mention here. Above all, Lesley was most proud of her son, Gregory Johnson, and her daughter, Stephanie Barger.
A native of Rochester, New York, Lesley earned her bachelor's degree from the State University of New York, her master's degree from UNR and her Ph.D from UNLV. Lesley worked many years in the medical field for Valley Hospital as a registered dietitian and as food service director for Desert Springs Hospital. She also taught several years at UNLV in the William F Harrah College of Hotel Administration. For years, Lesley was active in the professional advancement of dietitians throughout Nevada and was a proud member of the Nevada Dietetic Association, formerly serving as its president.
Lesley was also active in several dog rescue programs in Las Vegas. Most recently, two of her six dogs earned American Kennel Club Canine Good Citizen Certification, allowing Lesley and her dogs to work with several agencies within the Las Vegas area serving patients and grade school students. Lesley was also an avid equestrian, owning three horses.
In lieu of flowers, you are invited to make donations in memory of Lesley to the Las Vegas Valley Humane Society, A Home 4 Spot A Rescue, or to any one of the many dog and horse rescue organizations in Las Vegas.
Memorial service was held on Sunday, March 12, at Palm Mortuary, 6701 N. Jones Blvd.
Obituary published in the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Las Vegas, NV, March 2017.
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Lesley Banks Johnson
Lesley Banks Johnson with a friend http://obits.reviewjournal.com/obituaries/lvrj/obituary.aspx?page=lifestory&pid=184349193#sthash.D2PnUuCo.dpuf
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Jane Duckles (Gaulton)
I am so sad to hear this...she was a good friend in high school. RIP, my friend
Darice Goldstein (Bailer)
I am shocked and saddened to learn that Lesley is gone, and can't believe it. I remember Lesley in junior high school. She was a straight-A student, and I admired how bright she was and how hard she worked in school. I also remember going with her and her mother to Pittsford Plaza one day and helping Lesley pick out a dress for one of the junior high dances. I remember her being an only child, and very much loved. I can't believe she died so young. I'm truly sad.
Lawrence Urbon
Lesley was one of the first "smart girls" that I encountered when I first moved to Pittsford at the beginning of my sophomore year. She just did everything right, and in the best possible way, seemed to be somewhat of a teachers' pet/favorite. I barely knew her, and had less and less interaction as my own HS career proceeded. I was pleased to read in her bio that she was also an animal lover and rescuer. She had a good life and was obviously a compassionate person... My best to her family and close friends ----- Larry
William Straehl
Greatly saddened to hear of Leslie's passing. My deepest condolences to her friends and family. She made the world a better place.
Susan Eldredge (Evans)
Lesley has been my life long friend. Her mom, who sadly just passed away last fall, was our Campfire Girls leader. Lesley traveled the world more than once and was generous to a fault. She was brilliant and I used to love being her partner in projects as we always got an A because she was so detail oriented. Horsebackriding as high schoolers led to her owning several horses in Las Vegas. Sadly I sent my last Birthday card last week and texted her and she never responded. Don't know why, but I had a bad feeling and researched obits. There she was. Died several months ago and we never knew. Goodbye my friend. I'm sorry I never made the trip we planned when I retired.
Debra Leeds (Schomske)
I'm very sad to hear that Leslie has passed.. we were good friends junior/senior year. I loved her smile and laugh and "spunk". Regretfully, I had completely lost touch with her, and there was no address or contact information available so that we could invite her to the 40th reunion. I'm not at all surprised to see what a beautiful woman she became - hard-working, nuturing, compassionate, loving mother and wife, dedicated to family, friends, community and animals. I had so hoped to see her again one day. God bless you, Leslie. Rest in peace.
Craig Avery
Alphabetically speaking, my hall locker was next to Lesley's: Avery - Banks. In front of those lockers I asked her to be my date for the Junior Prom on June 6th, and she accepted. Afterwords, there was a Monroe County Sheriff parked near the school pulling over cars trying to nail Prom goers who were too young to drive at night, but tried it anyway. She freaked out and asked what I did wrong. I told her not to worry. The sheriff asked for my license and registration. He looked at the registration first, then at my license, He gave me a wry smile and handed them back to me, adding, "Happy Birthday." I also graduated from college on my birthday, and so did one of my daughters.
I read the notice of Lesley's passing on my birthday this year. I did not stay in touch with her after graduation, but am not surprised in the least at all of her worldly accomplishments. She was a smart, caring person, and through her gratious efforts, the world is a better place. My condolences to all who knew and loved her.
Janet Beardsley (Gunn)
I was so so sad to hear this. I just reconnected this past spring with Lesley after not being in touch since high school. Our common friend, Sue Eldredge, was helpful with this and we were going to make plans for the three of us to get together this year, reunion or not. Wow, I can only say I was shocked to get the news. This past winter she sent me a card with her updates and what was going on in her life and I mailed her a letter with my life happenings. I am not sure she read it or not. I so admired her mother for being a great role model and leading us through Camp Fire Girls. I still reflect on those times and what they helped me become. Leslie was a driven soul who loved her horses always and I knew she would be successful in any career she chose. I wish we could have had that 'reunion' so much! May she be at peace...
Suzanne Clayton
So sad to hear of her passing. We were in Bluebirds and Campfire girls together. She was a bright star and will be missed. Prayers for her family and friends.