With deep love and profound respect, we gather to honor the life and legacy of Deaconess Mae Ola Johnson, a cherished mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, friend, and faithful servant of God.

Mae Ola was born on September 24, 1920, in Ellaville, Georgia, to the late Lafair and Lemitea Richardson. As the 13th child of 17 siblings, Mae Ola grew up in a household rich in love, strong values, and an unshakable faith that would define the rest of her days.  Mae Ola attended Staley High located in Americus, Georgia.

In her early years, Mae Ola relocated to Ocala, Florida, where she met and married Willie James Johnson Sr., around 1942. Together they raised 6 children. Mae Ola was a devoted wife and mother, always guiding her family with grace, strength, and unwavering faith.

She was a hardworking woman, having worked as an elevator operator at the historic Marion Hotel in downtown Ocala. She also served as a domestic worker and dedicated herself to caring for children, offering support to working mothers in her community. Her work was a testament to her nurturing spirit and her desire to serve others.

Mae Ola's Christian faith was the cornerstone of her life. She was a lifelong member of Greater Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church, serving faithfully for nearly 89 years. As a Deaconess, Sunday School teacher, Bible study leader, and secretary for both the Pastor’s Aide Club and the Prayer Band, Mae Ola dedicated herself wholeheartedly to ministry. She lived the gospel she taught, often reminding loved ones and fellow church members to “put your trust in the Lord, for He will never leave nor forsake you,” and encouraging them to “pray, seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you.”

Even as her health declined, Mae Ola's spirit remained strong. She continued to offer wisdom, encouragement, and comfort to all who visited or called, always pointing them back to faith and prayer. Her love was steady, her counsel sincere, and her presence a blessing to all who knew her.

On July 5, 2025, Mae Ola transitioned peacefully into eternal rest, surrounded by the love, prayers and support of her family. She now rejoins her beloved husband Willie James Johnson Sr., and her children: Shirley P. Pullings, Bernard O. Johnson, Franklin Johnson, and Eugene “Larry” Johnson, who preceded her in death.

Mae Ola leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, and resilience. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Sandra Brown (Ocala, Florida), and her son, Willie James Johnson Jr. (Philadelphia). She also leaves her beloved adoptive daughters, Joan Hall and Loretta Jenkins, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and countless friends whose lives she touched deeply.