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BORN
1932
DIED
2015
FUNERAL HOME
Mae Johnson Obituary
May 2, 1932 ~ February 24, 2015
Monterey, CA
Mae Carol Johnson passed away February 24, 2015. She was 82. Mae lived a full life. She was born in Columbus, Georgia. In 1952, she married Roscoe Johnson, a military policeman stationed at Fort Benning. They had one daughter and 5 sons.
The Johnson family moved to the Monterey Peninsula in 1954. Mae and Roscoe divorced in 1964. Mae raised her children as a single parent. Mae earned her teaching credential to pursue a career in education. She was hired by the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District as a substitute teacher.
Mae rose through the ranks, from teacher to administrator, ultimately becoming the first female principal of Monterey High School. In 1987, she received the prestigious Milken Family Foundation Educator Award and was recognized as the California State Legislature Woman of the Year.
Mae earned her Master's Degree from the Monterey Institute of International Studies. She served on several non profit boards including Community Hospital of the Monterey Peninsula, Community Foundation of Monterey County and The Village Project. Mae was a founding member of the Delta Sigma Theta, Sorority, Inc., Monterey Peninsula Alumnae Chapter and a member of Friendship Baptist Church. Mae enjoyed poetry, the performing arts and family gatherings. She is predeceased by her daughter, Roselyn Johnson. She is survived by her brother, Cleotis Webb, Coleman, GA, sister, Cheryl Lawrence, Chicago, IL; sons, Andre and Ronald Johnson of Monterey, Edwin Johnson of Las Vegas, NV, Kenneth Johnson of Tracy, CA and Robert (Bobby) Johnson of Los Angeles, 9 grandchildren and her beloved friend and companion, Martin Taylor.
Visitation is March 4, 2015 from 4pm-8pm at Bayside Community Mortuary, 1610 Noche Buena Street, Seaside, CA. A private graveside service will follow. A Celebration of Life will take place March 14th from noon-2:30pm at Shoreline Community Church, 2500 Garden Road, Monterey, CA.
Sign the guestbook at www.baysidecommunitymortuary.com The family suggests in lieu of flowers to send donations to: Community Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box HH Monterey CA 93942.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Mae Johnson
Sponsored by Monterey Herald.
Denise Robertson
September 5, 2015
Mae was one of the finest human beings I had the pleasure to know. She was a client of my insurance agency for many years and we always spoke of her love and devotion to teaching and making a difference in a child's life. She was a devoted mom and loved her children deeply. Her memory will leave and imprint permanently on so many and I feel blessed to be one of those she touched. My heartfelt sympathy goes out to her family and all those that loved her dear soul. God be with you Mae, until we meet again.
Sandra Lackey
May 8, 2015
Mae Johnson, as so many of us knew her, was one of the world's greatest wonders. She educated so many children and parents during her journey here. She has left a hole in the hearts of many. She will be, forever, missed.
March 31, 2015
Mae was a fine principal, a credit to her family, and made a wonderful contribution to the community. She will be missed. Ted Balestreri, Cannery Row Company, Monterey, CA
Yvette Robinson
March 26, 2015
Beautiful lady, beautiful soul, you will be greatly missed Mrs Johnson.. From King to Monterey High, you were a gracious and loyal leader and for that i will forever be grateful for you knowledge and leadership. God Bless the Johnson Family
Yvette Robinson
March 26, 2015
Mrs. Johson was a beautiful woman and gracious leader to the Seaside communuty, she will be greatly missed. She was my principle at King Junior High and Montery High School.... God bless her and the Johnson Family
Monica Bindel-Cassen
March 16, 2015
Andre, sincere condolences on the loss of your mother. Hoping your memories will be a source of comfort during this difficult time.
Beth Ann Brown
March 14, 2015
Mae Carol,
There are no words that make sense just now.
In Our Loving Jesus' Name, Amen
Tyrone Sr. & Michi Wright
March 14, 2015
Our deepest condolences to the Johnson family. Sis Mae Johnson was an influential and encouraging person who always used words to strengthen and build up. Her laughter and smile would brighten up your day. She was a godly woman full of wisdom and love.
Another one of God's BEST has gone home to be at rest. She will be missed. Hold on family. God is with you.
Jeff Bryant
March 13, 2015
Mae's worthy works, warmth, wisdom, wit and willingness to serve set high standards for her sister and brother educators, parents, administrators, and community servants during her career, retirement(s), and now. We remain her willing students. Sadly, class is over. Dear Mae's mighty lessons persist.
Andrea Gulley-Robinson
March 13, 2015
Mae you will be truly missed, my prayers are lifted for your family.
Aron Hill
March 13, 2015
To The Johnson Family,
Sorry to hear about the lost of your Mother. May God comfort you all during this difficult time. Your Mother was a beautiful woman, always wanting to help me advance my education. I will always be grateful for that. Her legacy will live on. Stay strong. God Bless!
March 10, 2015
I knew Mae through the Leadership program.She was a real asset for the community and will be greatly missed.
Cynthia Hall
Del and Carolina Brown
March 10, 2015
Dear Ron and Andre,
Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family during this most difficult time. Your mom will continue to live in your hearts as with the many people she has touched. She had a beautiful soul.
We are so very sorry for your loss.
Richard Pagnillo
March 7, 2015
Mae Johnson did not die. She lives on in the countless number of students that she inspired and who remember her. She lives on in the teachers and administrators that she mentored who try to emulate her. She lives on in the great family that she raised and who live by her standards.
Pag
Navin Prasad
March 6, 2015
R.I.P. Mrs. Johnson
March 6, 2015
We are very sorry for your loss. She was a great community leader.
Nancy and Larry Foy
Ernest Mercuri
March 6, 2015
Mae was a very strong woman who made it in a very difficult world. Her family has reasons to be proud.
Heidi Mangelsdorf
March 5, 2015
"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."...Maya Angelou
Mae Johnson made every person she contacted feel loved, respected, and highly valued. In doing so she motivated countless young people to rise to a level of success and contribution that most could not imagine was possible. She had a real gift for both leading by her example of strength and grace and always finding the right words and stories to guide and inspire.
I've known Mae since I was born when she and my father worked together at King Junior High. They developed a close friendship that lasted the rest of their lives. When my father passed away in 2007 Mae became closer to my family and we enjoyed taking her to brunch at the Lodge on our annual trips to CA from NC. Her passing leaves a void in our lives and the lives of the many who loved her. Our deepest condolences to her family.
Eve (Lomboy) Paliotta
March 5, 2015
Ms. Johnson and I met as co-workers at the NYC (Neighborhood Youth Corps) when I was barely 16 years old. She treated me equally to all the other co-workers there, even though I was the youngest. I had the privilege of speaking to her many years ago after I learned Ed lived in Las Vegas. She introduced me to former (late) husband and father of my children. What an incredible legacy she has left behind, which is so evident from all who memorialized her here. God bless the family and my heartfelt condolences at the loss of your mother. What a proud family you must be. RIP Ms. Johnson.
Brenda Maehren-Neto
March 5, 2015
RIP Ms. Johnsonâ¤You will be missed.
Dean Flippo
March 5, 2015
My deepest condolences.
Navin Prasad
March 5, 2015
I don't have the words to say how i feel and what an influence she was on me. She was my Principal at King Middle School and then Monterey High School. She was my principal, my mentor and mostly my friend. She will be missed by many because she touched so many hearts through her loving compassion and never giving up on anyone.I am what i am now because of you Mrs. Johnson, I love you and Miss you dearly.
Love You,
Navin N. Prasad
Esther Sarmiento
March 4, 2015
You will be in our hearts forever. We love Grandma Mae. We will miss you.
The Sarmiento Family
Latressa Jollevet
March 4, 2015
She was a great lady. I was at King Jr. High with her.
Annie Moore
March 4, 2015
Ms. Mae Johnson was a wonderful woman who accomplished many things and wore many hats.she will be greatly missed.My father and I worked for her at king middle school and she was a wonderful person to work for. God Bless
Brenda Maehren-Neto
March 4, 2015
My condolences to the Johnson family. I remember Ms Johnson from King Jr. High. She was truly loved by many. Ms. Johnson will be missed.
March 4, 2015
We are saddened to learn of Mrs. Johnson's passing. Our deepest sympathy to her family.
Rex and Terry Titus,
Anthem, AZ
Allen & Margaret Belton
March 4, 2015
Ms Johnson was such a positive influence in the lives of our family...she always had a smile and kind and encouraging words; she was a grand lady who made the best sweet potato pies!
Judy Rowley
March 4, 2015
In every way, a truly Phenomenal Woman. The impact of her life reaches deep and wide.
Derek James
March 4, 2015
Thank God for Ms. Johnson, the legacy of her children and all the work she did for others. She enters into rest, the same rest as God after He created the world. Hebrews 4
Juanita Perkins
March 4, 2015
Our deepest condolences to The Johnson Family. Your Mother left you physically but never alone. She has been a true Mother, Friend, Counselor, Principal, Christian and Lady to us all. A great community family loss. RIP Mrs. Johnson. Prayers of comfort and strength to you all. Always. Juanita Perkins and Family.
Peg Rue
March 4, 2015
Mrs. Johnson is the person who showed me that strong and fair can go together 100 percent of the time. Thank you for that.
David Greenwell
March 3, 2015
To the family, we appear to be in a season of heavy losses, people who were our mentors and roll models growing up, are going home, to the place they always spoke of while living... respectfully Mrs. Johnson was an incredibly humble servant, who seemed to love life and people, raised some good people, she will be missed, on behalf of the Greenwell family, allow me to say good night sweet Queen, rest in Gods hands, til we meet again, prayers and blessing to the Famiy....David Greenwell
S D
March 3, 2015
My deepest sympathy on your loss. May memories of her always bring smiles to your faces and comfort to your hearts. During this difficult time, please know that God is a refuge and strength. (Psalms 46: 1)
Kathryn,Jack,Katlin and Jake Richardson/Zimmer
March 3, 2015
The Richardson Family Kathryn, Jack, Katlin and Jake Zimmer want you to know how much we loved you and will miss your bright smile and loving presence at our ocassional family gatherings. We know heaven is happy to have you join the angels looking down on us.
Joann Schoen
March 3, 2015
We loved you so much and will miss your smile and presence. You will always remain in our hearts. Know your dancing in heaven with Roselyn.
March 3, 2015
To the Family of Mrs. Mae C. Johnson, The Cunningham Family extends our sincerest condolences to you all. Mae Johnson will be missed, however, Heaven has gained a new resident. Thank God for her selfless service to others and her family. May God keep you in perfect peace during this time of sorrow.
Mrs. Toni Cunningham, Michael Cunningham, Reverend Rufus Cunningham, Ted Cunningham Jr., Reverend Gerald Cunningham
March 3, 2015
Mae, you are a mentor. Your lessons to those around you will last forever. Thank you for being my friend. You will rest in peace.
Ted Robinson
Lori Runkle
March 2, 2015
My friend Mae will be missed more than words can say. Anyone that had just a moment with her felt the love and joy she shared with every living thing. I only wish I had one last moment with this beautiful lady. I miss you so much!!
Patti Roberts (Padilla)
March 2, 2015
I'm going to love you forever, Mrs. Johnson. You gave me strength when I had none, you made me brave, and you made me feel like I was the only student you loved so very much. Your legacy, Sweet Lady, continues to grow with each generation you nurtured. I haven't seen you in years, yet I will miss you so. Rest in Love, My friend.
Michael W. Kidd
March 2, 2015
A positive, supportive educator and fine person, always.
Nairobi, Kenya
Verna M. Myers
March 2, 2015
She was my principal and my sorority sister (Delta Sigma Theta) Most of all, Mae was my friends. Often people mistook me for her and that was such an honor.
Debra Lucas Jones
March 2, 2015
I remember Mrs. Johnson from King Jr. High School. She always had a smile on her face and made a big difference in so many lives. My prayers go out to her family.
Dr & Mrs. Norman Gleason
March 2, 2015
Ron please accept our sincere sympathy in the passing of your mother. Our thoughts and prayers are with you in this difficult time.
Sal Belleci
March 2, 2015
a great lady I was one of her first students RIP Mae Johnson
Shirley Seward
March 2, 2015
I worked with Ms Johnson at King Middle School. Ms Johnson was a GREAT person and an outstanding principal, the studets loved her. I will always have love in my heart for her, she will be missed.
Stephanie Williams
March 2, 2015
My condolences to the Johnson family on the loss of Ms. Johnson. She was a great woman and a true lady. She had a great influence on so many. She will truly be missed. I was blessed to have had her in my life!
Gail Sollazzo
March 2, 2015
I loved Mae Johnson. She was the reason I sent our sons to King Middle School. What a kind, loving, intelligent woman! My heart goes out to her family and friends. She was a BRIGHT light in this world!
Robin Martino-Branco
March 2, 2015
Mrs. Johnson was one the best teachers I ever had, I loved her dearly. Rest in peace Mrs. Johnson. My heart felt thoughts and prayers to her family.
Kitty Melicia
March 2, 2015
Dear Mae you will be missed, you changed my daughters lives.
Veneta Clewis-Courtney
March 2, 2015
Ms. Mae Johnson, a Phenomenal Woman! She was one of my mentors and greatest supporters. Each time I saw Ms Johnson she would give me a big hug and tell me how proud she was of me for not giving up. With her example and encouragement I became a successful educator. What a phenomenal woman. I will truly miss Ms Mae Johnson. My condolence to her family.
Abra Tockerman
March 2, 2015
She was an inspiration and a wonderful woman and friend. I feel blessed to have had her in my life. My thoughts and prayers go out to her family
Cathy Morgan
March 2, 2015
My family sends our deepest condolences.Our thoughts and prayers are w/ your family.Ms Johnson will be missed n will be in our hearts always..Andre I love you my friend..
Kathleen Reese-Brooks
March 2, 2015
To a committed faithful educator...thank you for believing in and supporting young minds on this peninsula for countless years..Rest peacefully..
Bethtina Woodridge
March 2, 2015
Mrs. Johnson impacted my life in so many ways. Her words live on through me to the young people I work with. My condolences to her family. Mrs. Johnson was one of the most amazing women/heroes in my life. She taught me to do me better than anyone else. And I will forever remember the first three questions she ever posed to us. Thank you, Mrs. Johnson. Your legacy is indelibly marked in my spirit.
Julie Aiello
March 2, 2015
I'm am so saddened for the loss of an incredible woman! Someone I was proud to call my friend. From KMS TO MHS You were always supportive loving at kept it real. You made a lifelong impression in my life. My sincere condolences. Prayers for the family. <3
Holly Parker
March 1, 2015
Rest in peace my sweet angel, Mrs. Johnson! Other than my parents, you were my biggest supporter to pursue my legal career. You made sure I applied for all eligible scholarships while in high school and paired me with the best counselor, Mrs. Carol Weesner. You directed me on a path to graduate in the top 6 of my class and gain admission to my dream school, UCLA. I know you will continue to watch over me and I hope I continue to make you smile...much love!
Vicki Capp
March 1, 2015
I was fortunate to know and work at MPUSD with Mae Johnson. I will always remember her warm laughter and deep caring for both students and staff.
Angela Lomboy-LaChica
March 1, 2015
To my second family, Ms. Johnson was my councilor and a mom to me. She will be missed and and always loved. You will always be in my heart. To my brothers I will send my prayers to you all. I'm just a call away if you need me...
Phyllis Edwards
March 1, 2015
Mae was one of my role models when I worked as curriculum consultant for the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. Watching her in a variety of challenging situations was like experiencing a graduate course in how to be an educational leader as a woman in the 20th century. May you rest in blessings and peace forever, Mae.
Tamika Ahlfeld
March 1, 2015
I was lucky enough to meet Mrs. Johnson when I went to King. She helped me through a tough time in my life and I have her to thank for the person I am today. My condolences to the Johnson family.
March 1, 2015
Condolences to the family.
Frances Armstrong
Cordova, Tn
Ronald Dawkins
March 1, 2015
As with other prominent individuals, Mae Johnson touched many lives. I am proud to state that my life is better having known Ms. Mae Johnson.
Charles Williams
March 1, 2015
Condolences to the Johnson Family for your loss from the Williams Family.
Kathi Buckley Smith
March 1, 2015
Mrs. Johnson was one of the most incredible, inspirational women I know. I was lucky enough to get to know her when she was principal at MHS. She was so devoted to her students & supported them by her presence at just about every function be it sports, music/band etc. and when she retired and you saw her out & about, her arms were always wide open to give you that big hug.
My heartfelt condolences to the Johnson family. Please know our prayers are with you and that your mom leaves behind a huge legacy of wisdom, education and love!
With our sympathy,
Brett, Aimee & Kathi Buckley Smih
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
She was always happy for us when we were happy!
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
I am so proud to be one of those to be able to call her Mom!
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
She was a true gift to us all!
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
She loved life!
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
An amazing woman !!!
Donna Brisendine-McDowell
March 1, 2015
Sharon Randall
March 1, 2015
To Mae's beloved family and friends, we wish grace and peace and many wonderful, smiling memories of a beautiful woman who lived so much larger than life itself and made all of us better people for having known her.
Much love to you all,
Sharon Randall and Family
Evangeline Elias-Bringas
March 1, 2015
My condolences to the Johnson family. I I have always admired Ms. Johnson for her kindness and poise. She was always warm and kind to the students, always had a smile on her face. She was the principal at Monterey High School during my high school years. Thank you Ms. Johnson and may you rest in peace.
Patti Johannsen
March 1, 2015
My deepest condolences to the Johnson family. Mae Johnson was an amazing , wise woman and an inspiration to so many of us. I feel immensely grateful to have met her. The world is a much better place because she was here.
Kathy Garcia
March 1, 2015
May God give you eternal peace Mrs. Johnson you were a great principal to me both at King and MHS. Sympathy and prayers to your Family.
Kathy Garcia
Eva Gamble-Sanford
March 1, 2015
Rest In Paradise Mrs Johnson. I Pray For Strength And Comfort During This Time And May The Loving Memories Sustain The Johnson Family And Friends. In JESUS Mighty Name We All Are Praying Amem.
Mauricio, Sonia Ochoa Dimas
March 1, 2015
Our prayers go out to Ron and Johnson family. . My you rest in peace Ms. Johnson. ..
Paulette Lynch
February 28, 2015
Mae Johnson helped us get First Night Monterey off the ground. What a wonderful spirit so full of joy and compassion. Our condolences to your family!
Trish (Godfrey) Burgin
February 28, 2015
You inspired me beyond words. From King to MHS, you always believed in me and all your students. A truly amazing educator. You will be greatly missed.
Regina Richmond
February 28, 2015
Sorry for loss praying for your loss
Richmond/Burney Family
Mary Davis
February 28, 2015
Ron,
My prayers and condolences to you and your Family.
Bob & Lori Mansfield
February 28, 2015
Rest in Peace Mrs Johnson. Our Thoughts and Prayers......
sal belleci
February 28, 2015
God bless the johnson family. Best memories are that my dad would give Mae Italian sesame cookies, Italian bread and salmon
Bill Vaughan
February 28, 2015
I'm deeply saddened by the loss of Mae. My most heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends. I came to know and love Mae when she came on board as a supporter of my late wife, Donna Vaughan, in her bid for county
superintendent of schools. Donna loved her, too, as much for her friendship as for her heart of a superior educator, always putting the needs of the children first. I know she is with God and visiting with Donna.
February 28, 2015
Condolences from the Walker family; Larry, Leslie, Laurencia, & LJ.
Bobbie Blakeney
February 27, 2015
May the peace of the Lord lighten the heavy sorrow of the Johnson Family. May they find strength and comfort among family and friends that knew, loved and adored - Mrs. Mae C. Johnson.
Shirley Gordon
February 27, 2015
I am so deeply sorry to hear about the loss of such a remarkable woman. Mrs. Johnson was my mentor in the 7th grade at Martin Luther King Jr. high school. She was such an amazing woman who cared deeply about people. I am so honored to have met her, Her presence has forever changed my life. My prayers are with her family and close friends during the difficult times ahead. May God bless you all.
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