Former Annapolis Mayor Dean L. Johnson died Wednesday at Anne Arundel Medical Center after a long battle with cancer, according to a press release from the city of Annapolis.

Johnson, 68, is survived by his wife, Sally Johnson, his sons, Kevin, Eric and Stuart Johnson, his mother, Marianne Muse, as well as his two brothers and four grandchildren, according to his obituary.

Mr. Johnson was elected mayor in 1997, city officials said in the release. He served as mayor until 2001. Prior to that he served as the alderman of Ward 2 for two terms.

“Dean was a natural optimist who was always quick to share a smile or a friendly word," Annapolis Mayor Josh Cohen said in the release. "A genuinely considerate and humble man, Dean loved our community and loved participating in its civic life.

"His service as mayor and alderman was just one of many ways in which he gave so generously of his time and energies for the betterment of our community. My deepest sympathies go out to Sally, their children and extended family. Our town shares your loss and mourns with you," Cohen said.

The Capital reported that during his time as mayor, Mr. Johnson started the infrastructure improvements of inner West Street and finished Westgate Circle, among other things. Most recently, he served on the city’s transportation board, according to the release.

Johnson was active in many organizations in the community, including Colonial Players of Annapolis, Habitat for Humanity and his church, city officials said.

A memorial service is scheduled to be held at the First Presbyterian Church in Annapolis at 2 p.m. Monday, according to the release.

Instead of flowers, donations in Johnson’s memory can be made to the Annapolis-based organization We Care and Friends at 92 W. Washington St., Annapolis MD 21401 or First Presbyterian Church.

Editor's note: This article has been updated from a previous version to include additional details about Johnson's life and information regarding donations in his memory.