Theresa Johnson

Theresa Johnson, age 104, and most affectionately known as “mama,” “mother,” “grandmother,” and “Gi-Gi,” peacefully passed away at Evelyn’s House, after a two-week stay, surrounded by the love of her family. Beloved by all who knew her, she received countless visits from her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren during her time there. Her charming personality, sweet nature and generosity with her kisses, made her a favorite among the staff, who affectionately referred to her as “grandmother” just as her family did. Her presence brought joy and warmth to everyone around her, creating cherished memories for all. Theresa was born at the turn of the century in Haywood County, TN to the union of Alex and Dora (Williams) Graves, who preceded her death. She was also preceded in death by her loving husband, John “Johnny” Johnson; her children, Willie Frank Barnett, John A. Johnson, and Rochelle (Johnson) Vanderbilt; and, her siblings, Hattie Mae Graves, Lillie Mae Graves, Mary Edith Graham, Freddie Mae Lovell, Corinne Crimes, Levorn Graves, Rozell Graves, and Jim Graves. At an early age, Theresa accepted Christ as her Lord and savior, and in her later years, she dedicated her life to Jehovah on February 15, 1997. Theresa loved life and lived it to the fullest. At the age of 14, she was a cook for a boarding house; she was an entrepreneur and owned her own hotel; she even worked for a movie star and his family in St. Louis! Although Theresa wasn’t afforded the opportunity of a formal education, she participated in adult educational programs at the school near her home. Despite her many accomplishments, Theresa valued nothing more than time with her family. She enjoyed hosting family at her home, family trips, family reunions, shopping with her daughters and gardening. She took tremendous pride in maintaining a meticulous yard filled with bountiful flowers, vegetables and peach trees. She loved canning her peaches, pickling cha cha, and making peach preserves. She was also known for her cooking; her specialties were rice pudding, fried fish, and her famous “candied sweets.” Left to cherish her memories are her children: Bettie (Robert) Walker, Jerry (Deborah) Johnson, and Joe (Carolyn) Johnson. Also left to cherish her memories are her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Theresa Johnson

August 15, 1919 - June 7, 2024