LeBertha Pearl Thomas Johnson

LeBertha Pearl Thomas Johnson was born in Shreveport, Louisiana, the eldest of five daughters to the late, Joe and Albertha Thomas.  Raised in the close-knit Allendale community, she enjoyed an active and joyful childhood until the loss of her mother at age twelve.  In the years that followed, LeBertha lovingly stepped into the role of “sister-mother,” caring for her younger siblings with devotion.

She attended Booker T. Washington High School, where she formed lifelong friendships, including with Garfield Johnson, Jr., whom she later married.  Their union lasted 40 years and was blessed with two children, Nicole and Garfield III.

LeBertha continued her education at Grambling College in Louisiana, earning her Bachelor of Science in Education in 1959, and became the first African American teacher at Owen Elementary School in Pontiac.  She went on to teach at several schools retiring from Crofoot Elementary School, inspiring countless students with her dedication and grace.

A faithful member of Newman African Methodist Episcopal Church, she served as a Deaconess, class leader, and missionary.  She was also active in civic and social organizations, including The Links, Inc., Top Ladies of Distinction, Jack and Jill of America, Inc., and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., where she was a proud Golden Member.

She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Nicole; her son, Dr. Garfield Johnson III (Jakeen); her beloved grandchildren, Graham and Gracie; her sisters Alma Ruth Thomas, Dorothy Fontenette (Roland), and Emma Lee Murphy; and a host of nieces, nephews, goddaughters, relatives, and friends.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at Newman African Methodist Episcopal Church 233 Bagley, Pontiac, Michigan.

AKA IVY BEYOND THE WALL CEREMONY at 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m.

FAMILY HOUR  * 1:30 p.m. -  2:30 p.m.

MEMORIAL SERVICE  * 2:30 p.m. -  3:30 p.m.