Nannette Johnson Bakelaar

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Mrs. Nannette J. Bakelaar. Nannette, age 64, of Savannah, made her heavenly transition on Monday, January 19, 2026.

Nannette was born July 4, 1961 in Ridgewood, New Jersey at Valley Hospital to the late William H. Johnson and the late Margaret Seguine Johnson.  As an only child, Nannette was a blessing to her family.

Nannette graduated from Ramapo High School in Bergen County and then attended Fordham University where she was on the Dean's list from 1984-88 and earned her Bachelor of Arts. She also attended Farleigh Dickinson University in 1994 for her paralegal certificate and had Honors in Wills, Estate, and Criminal law  After earning her certificate, she served as a paralegal in Bergen County for many years.

Nannette was a vivacious and jovial woman, with a kind and loving heart. She had an affinity for the arts and attended the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute where she was a member of Lee Strasberg's Masters class. Music and theater brought joy and passion into her world. She was active in many parts of her life, being a dancer and a member of the New York Athletic Club. However, her greatest joy in life was her two children, Jim and Jackie. Together, she and her children moved to Savannah, Georgia. She loved nothing more than spending time with her children and their dog Boat. She will be greatly missed by those whose lives she touched.

Along with her parents, Nannette was preceded in death by her husband of 28 years, James D. Bakelaar, whom she met at a funeral home; her best friend Liv Turid; and beloved dogs: Marque, Phantom, Dozer, Bear, and Captain.

She is survived by her son, James "Jim" Bakelaar, daughter Jacqueline "Jackie Bakelaar, and dog Boat.  

Nannette left us with the sentiment "Be glad you're alive and go have fun - Love Mom"

There will be no local services at this time.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Cancer Society