July 30, 1953-August 24, 2024
A celebration of life for Mrs. Mary Helen Johnson ws held, Saturday, September 7, 2024, 11:00 A.M. at Little Rock M.B. Church.
Mrs. Mary Helen Johnson was born on July 30, 1953 in Joliet, IL to the late Curtis and Sylvia Holden. Mrs. Mary Helen Johnson departed this life on August 24, 2024 at Mississippi Baptist Medical Center in Jackson, MS.
She is preceded in death by her husband, Robert Lee Johnson, Jr.
Mother Mary accepted Christ at a young age as a long-lasting member of Brown Chapel AME Church in Joliet, IL. Mary Helen was a graduate of Joliet Central High School, later atending Joliet Junior College. Mary Helen married Robert Lee Johnson, Jr. in January of 1983 in Joliet, IL. With that lifelong union they raised four beautiful children, Racheal Edwards, Robert Lee Johnson, Gary Levall Johnson and Michael Eian Johnson. Mary and Robert later moved to Decatur, MS in the summer of 1989 to live out the rest of their lives together. She later in life became a member of Little Rock Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Carl Smith. Mary Helen was known as the Matriarch of her family, having to take on the role of Mother to so many that came under her. She was the cornerstone of her family, always bringing warmth, love and laughter into the lives of others. She was known for her family gatherings that left you with a full heart, full belly adn endless stories to tell. Mary Helen was known for always being there when you needed her, no matter the time or place. She was a fierce protector, a comforting presence and a steady guide. She taught us the importance of family, resilience and humor, even in the toughest times. She will forever be the Grand Matriarch of our family.
Mary Helen Johnson leaves to cherish in her memory, four children, Racheal Edwards of Decatur, MS, Robert Lee Johnson (Katrena) of Decatur, MS, Gary Levall Johnson of Hickory, MS and Michael Johnson (Christina) of Houston, TX; one Goddaughter, Tammy Gallaspy of Decatur, MS; five sisters, Evon Holden of Douglasville, GA, Theresa Phillips of Olympia Fields, IL, Deborah Robinson (Ozzie) of Jackson, AL, Chris Holden-McDonald of Joliet, IL and Rita Holden of Tuscaloosa, AL; one brother, Curtis Holden of Joliet, IL. She also leaves to cherish in her memory, a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews and a host of other family and friends.
Professional Services entrusted to Dunlap & Thames, Newton, MS.
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