The Waldo County Commissioners said in a Jan. 7 statement that they are, "deeply saddened to announce the passing of Commissioner Betty I. Johnson on January 6, 2026, surrounded by her family, after a brief illness."

Commissioner Johnson served the county for over 15 years, including the final year of her fourth term as Commissioner and her second year as Chair of the Board, the release said.

She was widely admired for her poised, creative leadership, empathetic decision-making, and good sense of humor, which brightened even the most challenging moments.

Throughout her tenure, she actively served on numerous committees and boards, including the Maine County Commissioners Association Board of Directors and Finance Committee, Midcoast Council of Governments, Belfast Creative Coalition, AIME (Artivism in Maine), HiiT (Helping Incarcerated Individuals Transition), Coastal Counties Workforce Board, Waldo County Comprehensive Community Health, Aging Well in Waldo County, Waldo County Wellness Committee, Maine Board of Occupational Safety, Homeless in Maine Consortium, Midcoast Public Health Council, and Waldo County General Hospital Healthy Communities Coalition.

Prior to serving on the Commission, she was a member of the Waldo County Budget Committee and the Lincolnville Select Board, and she was active in the Waldo County Democrats.

Commissioner Johnson was passionate about helping individuals recovering from substance use disorder and supporting those reentering society after incarceration. She leaves a lasting legacy of creativity, compassion, service, and commitment to the people of Waldo County.

Information regarding memorial arrangements and the process for filling her vacant seat under Maine law will be shared as it becomes available.