Johnette Isham Obituary: Johnette Isham, the organization’s founding executive director, passed away on Tuesday, August 1, according to a news release. There was no cause of mortality listed.
According to a previous Bradenton Herald article, Isham, 70, retired to spend more time with his family at the end of last October. She served as executive director for thirteen years.
Isham played a significant role in numerous community initiatives, including the 2012 opening of the Riverwalk, the Public Market, the Village of the Arts, and the Blues Festival.
“Without her, we would not have the Public Market, the Blues Festival, Long Table, or ArtSlam. She will be dearly missed, but I wish her the best in retirement, everything she deserves.”
In 2016, Realise Bradenton was named the Manatee Small Business of the Year in the non-profit category.
Johnette Isham Obituary
Johnette Isham, a renowned designer and arts philanthropist, has passed away, leaving an extraordinary legacy of community development through the arts. She was seventy-years-old. Isham has nearly thirty years of experience in organisations, the arts, and design. She utilised her abilities as a visionary and educator to bring about change in the corporate, governmental, and civic spheres.
In contrast, Isham is best known for founding Realise Bradenton, a non-profit organisation that promotes the downtown area as a bustling, energetic centre. Under Isham’s leadership as Executive Director, the organisation supported Bradenton’s maximum potential by connecting communities through the arts and cuisine.
Even after she departed Realise Bradenton in October 2022, Isham was able to continue to have an impact due to her inspiring vision. At the 2015 National Philanthropy Scan Workshop, she presented her strategy for using philanthropy to improve communities.
Many individuals were moved by Isham’s leadership, vigour, and commitment after her passing. Her revolutionary leadership, support for the arts, and dedication to Bradenton have left an indelible mark.
We cannot adequately convey our sorrow for your loss as we mourn alongside your family and friends over this tremendous loss. We are profoundly saddened to learn of the passing of this promising being. Please accept our condolences, and may our prayers bring you comfort. Please accept our sincere condolences
