Grief counseling offered after Port Angeles High School security officer dies

PORT ANGELES — Grief counselors have been made available for Port Angeles High School students and staff after the sudden death of a longtime high school security officer.

Cheryl Johnson died Wednesday at her home in Port Angeles, said Jessica Johnson, her daughter-in-law.

She was 57.

Jessica Johnson said the cause of death has yet to be determined, saying only that it was natural causes.

“It was very sudden and a shock,” she said Friday. “She died suddenly, and we’re in the process of figuring this out.”

Principal Garry Cameron said via email Thursday that extra counselors will be available to provide support for high school students and staff affected by Cheryl Johnson’s death.

Counselors can be reached at 360-565-1562, and high school administration can be reached at 360-565-1518.

Johnson, a lifelong Port Angeles resident, had worked for the high school as a security officer for more than 20 years, her daughter-in-law said.

She was well-loved by staff and students, Jessica Johnson said, adding that she was good at working with students with behavioral issues.

“I really think that’s her main contribution to that school,” she said. “She always cared about every kid.”

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Reporter Jeremy Schwartz can be reached at 360-452-2345, ext. 5074, or at jschwartz@peninsuladailynews.com.

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