Eula Kathleen Johnson

Kathleen Johnson passed away at her home in Center Grove on January 17, 2021, at the age of 99. She was born March 26, 1921, in Bradley, Mississippi to Lula May Fergerson and Neely Bascom Quinn.

She was preceded in death by her mother, father, one brother, two sisters, her husband of 70 years, Dot Johnson; three sons: Jim Harris (Betty Sue), Robert (Sheila), Curtis (Paula); and one great-grandson.

She is survived by daughters-in-law: Betty Sue, Sheila, and Paula; nine grandchildren: James, Glenn, Dean, Kevin, and Robb Johnson, Jennifer Breazeale, Angie Sinko, Lindsey Johnson, and Dana Buford; 16 great-grandchildren; and 21 great-great-grandchildren; who lovingly referred to her as “Mammy”.

In the 60’s, she was a “lunchroom lady” at Sudduth Elementary School. She later retired from Garan Manufacturing after 20 years.

Kathleen was an accomplished seamstress, knitter, cook, and was known far and wide for her homemade caramel cakes. She was a very talented pianist, playing by ear, and vocalist. As a child, she would walk to the neighbor’s house to play their piano. Although she badly wanted a piano, she never had one until she married and her husband, Dot, sold a cow to buy her one. On her 97th birthday, she appeared on stage playing I’ll Fly Away on keyboard with the Longview Opry Band. She entertained friends and family playing piano at her 98th birthday party, and just days before her passing she was propped up in bed with a keyboard across her lap playing and singing Amazing Grace for some of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

Kathleen was a faithful member of Center Grove Baptist Church for 80 years. She served as a Sunday school teacher, church secretary, pianist, organist, and was a member of the choir.

She fiercely loved Jesus and her family. Kathleen was the definition of a matriarch. She leaves behind a long lineage who will honor her memory and continue to love one another, as she taught them to do. She will forever be our Mammy.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, January 19th from 12:30-2:00 p.m., with services immediately following at Center Grove Baptist Church.

Memorial donations may be made to: Center Grove Baptist Church, 146 Center Grove Rd., Maben, MS 3975.