Isabella Cooper Johnson
Isabella Cooper Johnson, 98, of Franklin went to meet her maker Tuesday, July 20, 2010.
She joined her husband, the Rev. G.W. Johnson, exactly 13 years from his passing. Isabella had her daughter, Barbara, and grandson, David, holding her hands on each side of the bed. Isabella left this world as she lived, very peaceful and quiet.
She was the daughter of Mollie Cooper and Alonzo Lloyd. Isabella was the youngest of seven siblings, who all preceded her in death. She met and married G.W. Johnson and remained a part of that union for 65 years.
Isabella was the biological mother of her daughter, Barbara and one son, the late George Wiley Johnson Jr.
The Johnsons arrived in Franklin in January 1945. They served as pastor and wife at Piney Grove Baptist Church for 42 1/2 years.
Isabella was a member of the Adult Sunday School class, The Willing Workers, Missionary Choir, Missionary Ministry and Deaconess Board. She worked faithfully in the church and always had a smile for everyone.
Isabella attended church every Sunday until she became ill. Her last worship service was July 11. She was the oldest member of the church.
Isabella had a great love for the children in the church and was always willing to listen and give advice that was both helpful and encouraging.
She will be remembered for the dinners she served in her home during revival time each year. Isabella also served ministers who would drop in from time to time. She was an excellent cook and many enjoyed her food when they sat at her dining room table.
Isabella was an adopted mother to many more. She was known to them as Mama Johnson, Mother Johnson and Aunt Belle.
Those who will cherish loving memories are her daughter; grandchildren David (Sheila) Wilson of Lawrenceville, Cynthia (Sammy) Wiley of Chesterfield, Brenda Johnson of Fairfax and George Johnson IV of Bronx, New York; great-grandchildren Sandy Wiley of Durham, N.C., David (Tiffany) Wilson II of Richmond, Darryl Wilson and Dominique Wilson, both of Yorktown, and Chrystal Johnson of Bronx; devoted nieces Vernestine Wilson and Hazel Hart both of Chicago, Zelda Stokes of Fayetteville, N.C., and Nancy (Thomas) Chavis of Parmele, N.C.; and numerous great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews.
Isabella will also be remembered by many cousins and friends.