Constance Dugovic Johnson

Constance Dugovic Johnson 1935 -2025

Constance Dugovic Johnson, born February 10, 1935, a veteran actress of film, television, and theater and a 36-year resident of Bainbridge Island, passed peacefully on June 6, 2025 at June 6, 2025 at Harbor View Hospital. Her son, Courtney Dane, was at her side. 

Born in Tabor, South Dakota, to Stella and Teofil Dugovic, the family migrated west to California, where they made a home in Fresno, California. Recognized early as a blossoming beauty, in 1955, she was named Miss Fresno County, one of the stepping stones for the annual Miss America pageant. This recognition advanced her aspirations to pursue a career in theater arts. Always undaunted in pursuit of her goals, Connie Dugovic studied in New York and Los Angeles while developing lifelong friendships in the business. Some were directors and producers, including Stanley Kubrick. Many were fellow actors, including James Dean. One of the actors she met early in her career was Russell Johnson. 

Later in life, he became her third husband and was the love of her life. She proudly became known as "the Professor's Wife" based on the role Mr. Johnson played on the CBS TV series, "Gilligan's Island." They were married for 32 years until Russell's passing in 2014. While married, they performed together on the stage for fundraising events. Constance used "The Professor's Wife" as a brand for various creative ventures. Constance's early performance profile included the George Burns and Gracie Allen Show, A House is Not a Home, Ben Casey, Saints and Sinners, Bob, Carol, Ted and Alice, and a number of 1960s television specials and series. 

Constance Johnson enjoyed the majestic beauty and the culturally enriched population of Bainbridge Island. She is survived by her son, Courtney, also a resident of Bainbridge Island, Kim Johnson, her stepdaughter and a resident of Seattle, and her grandson, Max Dane and his wife Lani, both currently serving as officers in the United States Army, St. Roberts, Missouri. She was predeceased by her husband, Russell, and stepson, David Johnson, who served as the first City of Los Angeles AIDS Coordinator, and her three brothers, Larry, Don, and Art Dugovic, all veterans of WWII, as was Russell Johnson. 

In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting that donations be made to Island Volunteer Caregivers.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Cook Family Funeral Home of Bainbridge Island, WA.