Marian Ruth Johnson

On Thursday September 16, 2021, Ms. Marian R. Johnson, the sixth of nine children born to the union of the late Mr. Seth Ellis and Mrs. Laura Bivens Johnson, peacefully transitioned from this earthly life to an eternal life hereafter.

At a very tender age, Ms. Johnson confessed a hope in Christ and united with Denmark CME Church, in Denmark, TN where she remained a faithful member for the duration of her life. During this time, while living in Jackson, she attended Sunday Church, sang in the choir, and attended District and Annual Conferences. She enjoyed preparing meals for Revival week. Sister Marian’s education began in two elementary schools in Madison County, namely, Golden and Neely schools. After completing eighth grade she entered Denmark High School for the next four years, where she enjoyed playing basketball as well as sewing and cooking in the home economic classes.

After graduating from high school in 1950, Marian entered Lane College. While she was attending Lane College, she took on various jobs in Gary, Indiana, and Jackson Madison Country Hospital. During this period, Marian also taught at an elementary school in Mississippi and in New Madrid, Missouri. She held the position in Missouri for several years while continuing to take classes at Lane College. Marian graduated from Lane College in 1965 and received a certification in Early Childhood Development from the University of OK. In 1968 she relocated to St. Charles, Missouri where she was employed as a 2nd grade teacher at Central Elementary School in the Francis Howell School District. In 1987, Marian taught 3rd grade at Becky-David Elementary School, in the same District. Here, she completed her teaching career, retiring in 1994 and moving back home to Jackson, TN. Marian was a member of the National Education Association beginning in 1975. She was nominated twice to the Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers. This is a distinct honorary nomination by students who have accepted special honorary award recognition.

In 1995 Marian moved to White Plains, New York to help care for her beloved niece, Bivens, whom she had supported from early childhood throughout her college years. Marian had a strong relationship with her oldest sister, Mrs. Cecille Cullins and her first born child, Bivens Anne Cullins. Bivens Anne was adored and spoiled by everyone, but Marian assumed responsibility for her. She did everything for Bivens, including taking care of all expenses before Bivens began walking. This support continued throughout college and beyond. In July 1995, Bivens became very ill and peacefully passed away. Her four children were quite young at the time and Marian decided to stay in White Plains, to assist with parenting responsibilities until the youngest child completed High School.

Marian returned to White Plains, NY in 2017 and lived happily with her nephews and nieces until she peacefully passed away on September 16, 2021. Marian meant so much to so many people. She was dearly loved by her family, her friends, and everyone she encountered.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Mr. and Mrs. Seth E. and Laura Bivens Johnson; 4 sisters and 3 brothers: Mrs. Cecille Johnson Cullins (Oliver), Ms. Lola D. Johnson, Ms. Lois C. Johnson, Mrs. Johnnie M. Cooper (Samuel), Mr. Lloyd B. Johnson, Sr, Mr. Seth E. Johnson, Jr. Mr. Robert F. Johnson.

Ms. Johnson leaves to cherish her memories, one sister: Ms. A. Laura Johnson, White Plains, New York; and others who surrounded her in New York: one devoted niece and four devoted nephews who stood by her before and during her illness. Those who made sure that she got everything she needed and wanted to make her comfortable and happy: Mr. Rodney R. Golden (Nicole), Mahopac, N.Y., Dr. Seth I. Golden (Mia), Mr. Ira L. Golden, II, Mr. Ira R. Golden (Daphne). White Plains, N.Y., Ms. Alexis Golden, New Rochelle, N. Y.

Marian also leaves to cherish fond memories are nieces, nephews, cousins, brother- in- law, caregivers, associates, and friends.