Stephanie Jean Johnson

Remembering my dear friend today.
Rest in Power, Stephanie.

To the Family of Stephanie Johnson:



I met your mother at a library conference held in Pittsburgh. She was a lovely person. I just learned of her death through a former neighbor of your mother. You have my deepest sympathy. May God comfort you at this time.



Mildred Glenn

MAY GOD KEEP YOU IN HIS LOVING CARE. OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH YOU.



THE SALLIE-LAWRENCE FAMILY

MARIMBA AND SAMBA, I JUST HEARD ABOUT YOUR MOTHERS PASSING ON SATURDAY. I AM SO SAD TO HEAR ABOUT IT. I WILL KEEP YOU IN MY PRAYERS AND I KNOW THAT SHE IS AT PEACE. SHE WAS SUCH A LOVELY PERSON AND ALWAYS HAD A SMILE ON HER FACE. I WILL MISS HER.

Dear Mirimba and Samba,

I was saddened to hear about your mom's death. She was a wonderful neighbor on Ophelia Street. We lived at 238 - my parents were Stanley and Cecilia Kaszubowski, and my children, Jennie and Joy played with both of you were you were all very young. Your mom was a delight to talk to, and she was so kind to my mom when my dad passed away in 1980. I never forgot that kindness, nor did my mother. My daughter Jennie, who works for the Carnegie, knew your mom most recently through the Wilkinsburg Library. She was a beautiful person, and someone who lived life to its fullest, and always with a smile for those of us who knew her. Mary Alice & Howard Armour

To Marimba, Samba, Ivan, her family and friends:

Stephanie was one of those very special people that everyone could relate to. We thought it was very touching to see how she touched the lives of so many people. She has been the best neighbor and friend that anyone could possibly ask for. She will be greatly missed in so many ways, but luckily she left us with many happy memories to remember her.

Peace to all!

Dear Marimba and Samba,



I was so saddened when I received your phone call - your mom was a wonderful friend who I have had the privilege of knowing. We met back in 1980 when we both worked at Presby and I spent countless days laughing with her, enjoying her spunk and wonderful sense of humor. She tried (in vain) to teach me to dance, prayed with me when my infant son was ill, and taught me to stand up for what I wanted. I enjoyed her jokes, her wonderful jewelry, her outlook on life - she knew everyone! She loved the two of you so much and spoke of you all the time. I thank God for allowing me to know such a wonderful human being. Bless you both as you continue your lives - know she and your dad are with you.

To the Johnson and Cooper Family:



I just found out today;you have my

deepest sympathy. Stephanie was a

friend from childhood. I'm thinking

now about stopping past Ms.Ernestine

and Mr.Sam's house to pick up Steph

as we walked to G.W. to play basketball.I honestly cannot ever

remember Stephanie being angry,she

always had a smile.God's Peace be with you all.

Dear Marimba, Samba, Sam & Ernestine,

I just heard today and am profoundly and deeply moved by your loss. I know you will carry on in Stephanie's spirit and with her values. May peace and comfort be with you.

I was sorry to hear of the passing of your mother, Mz Stephanie. She was a friend of our family from McKeesport and was a great comfort to me and my family when our mother was sick (Alverna). Her words and prayers helped with my mother's passing and I hope that you are receiving the same comfort and peace in knowing that your mother was blessed, loved, and will be truly missed by all who had the opportunity to come in contact with her.

Stephanie I am so honored to have known you and to have been a witness to your lifes work. A part of me is saddened by your departure and another part of me celebrates your elevation to the next level. An elevation that can only occur when you have fulfilled your lifes purpose. Thank you for your blessings... especially the two you left with us... Marimba and Samba.

Dear Rim amd Samba:

Many a day I sat in your kitchen eating cookies your mom bought just for me and you two were not allowed to eat "Lela's cookies." Ms. Johnson was not only your mom she was my friend. She welcomed me in to her home as if I were one of her children, which I realized sometime I ago that I am one of her children. We talked about History and Archives and about Black Folk and how wonderful we are. She let me sit in her bedroom as I typed my papers for school when was I was attending Duquesne. She helped me get that Masters. When I think about Rim and I eating cookies and drinking tea or eating waffles in the middle of the day (because that is the only thing Rim could cook) Ms. Johnson was always around to make us do something and leaving post-it notes. Yes the Post It Notes!!! I love her and always will and I look forward to the fulfillment of Rev 21:3,4 so that no one will have to face what we in dealing with death.

She danced at my wedding (which I have on tape), which would not have been the same if she were not there doing her unique rendition of the electric slide.

Thank you Rim and Samba for sharing your mom. You all are family and I love you both.

Love

LELA

to samba,marimba,cooper,and johnson

families



times like this you want to hear so much more than "i'm sorry" as somehow,the words mean nothing an you just want to scream out,and hear more. please know your all in our thoughts an prayers most especially,your mom samba an marimba. we only knew stephanie a short time but,oh how your mom touched our hearts so. someone,in another e mail said it best when they spoke of going outside looking up at the night sky to visit with your mom there right you know,and the best part is knowing she's beautiful,happy, and no longer,in pain. we'll all see her again someday when its our time,and what a reunion that'll be..!! ;)



(parents of sarah warmus)

Marimba and Samba,

You are in our thoughts and prayers. May you find Peace and Grace in God's arms.

Love and Peace to the Johnson family. Our prayers are with you in your time of loss. We pray knowing that one day all tears will be wiped away. May the Lord hold and comfort you as a mother holds her newborn. Much love from the Baton-Stawson family: Mark, Tracy, Nia, Thandi and little Maisha.

Marimba, Your mom was such a wonderful, happy, positive person who brought joy to everyone. It was such an honor to know her. I am thinking of you at this difficult time and pray for you and your family.May you cherish all the wonderful memories of dear Stephanie Johnson. Andrea Wedner

Stephanie I am and will always miss you. You became an important part of my life for the short time we met. I could always come to peace and comfort at your home when mine was a mess! I'll miss watching Judge Judy and all the inspirational talks we shared. Know that I enjoyed taking care of you in your time of need and hope that you enjoyed me being there. Stephanie I love you and pray that you are finding comfort in Gods loving arms.I know that I still will here your words of wisdom in guiding me through this life,... and each African Art picture I come to purchase will bring fond memories of you!

P.S.

Marimba and Samba you were lucky to have such a wonderful mother.I know we never met but believe when I say you were blessed! May all the prayers you will be receiving give you comfort in the time of your sorrow. May God bless you, Ivan, Azizi, Tazi, and your entire famiy.

To Marimba and Samba;

Our deepest sympathy and hearts go out to you and your family. Your mother was such a great woman and a true inspiration to us all. She taught about us unity and Kwanzaa. The list goes on. Her door was always open to us when we were growing up as kids, and we will always love her for her energy, her spirit and kind heart.

We love you all.

Marimba and Samba,

Please accept my condolences. I'm sorry I won't be able to make it to the viewing; I hope you're both okay. Keep right on keepin' on. Hope to see you sometime.



Love,

Bill

Marimba...

You are such a strong lady...and your mom was a great role model for you. May her memory comfort you and give you strength.

Know I am thinking of you at this difficult time in your life.

Marimba and Samba:



My condolences to you and your family on the loss of your mother. Stephanie was one of the sweetest, friendlies persons I have known. She was always encouraging and could make me laugh. I know she is smiling down on us.

Marimba and Samba, I was so sorry to hear about your loss. Your mother has truly touched all of us and she will be missed. I am sorry that I will not be able to make it to the funeral, but know that you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Samba and Marimba,



May God bless and keep you strong in your time of need...The Mayfield family's love and prayers are with you...

Dear Family



You have my deepest sympathy. I knew Stephanie through my work on the Wilkinsburg Library Board. She was truly a wonderful person and she will be missed. May God Bless you all.

As one of the original children of the "SUN RA House" on Ophelia, I have the deepest and most loving memories of my "Aunt Steph". From a baby growing up in the Pittsburgh Black Theatre Dance Ensemble, as the first-born child of 'Malaya & Suliman', I always looked up to them both as a child, Bob & Stephanie. They were phenomenal personalities... passionate... intellectual. Even all the way through undergrad at Carnegie-Mellon and graduate school at Duquesne (when my broke behind used to take my laundry over and watch cable tv in exchange for helping around the house, basement and backyard...smile!), Aunt Stephanie and the entire Johnson (and Cooper!) families have been an integral part of my support system and extended family! Samba and Marimba are like siblings to me and I couldn't imagine my life without them in it. You two are a catalyst for positivity in my eyes! You succeeded when the odds were stacked against you time and time again. We've known each other all our lives, so I know what I'm talking about. I've witnessed your trials & tribulations...and your TRIUMPHS!!! Matter of fact, most of the progressive, artistic and intellectual young professionals in Pittsburgh, I've met through YOU, Marimba and Samba. Aunt Stephanie was the "Den Mother" for tons of us! Her legacy lives on in OUR triumphs and in the daily manifestations of the LOVE she gave us all. Give unto others as Aunt Stephanie gave unto you!!! She embodied every Kwanzaa principle she taught. We should strive to do the same. As a matter of fact, we should attempt to EXCEED. Uplift her, Celebrate her, Make her Proud!!... And let her rest - she earned it! Harambee`!!! Let's Dance for Stephanie!!! :-)

Marimba and Samba,

Your mother touched so many of us in an immeasurable way with her positive energy. She will be always remembered for her spirit of strength, endurance, and love. I pray you both will take comfort in knowing she is now in her glorified body and will continue to guide your steps from beyond.

Dear Marimba, Samba and Johnson and Cooper families, You were Blessed to call Stephanie Jean Cooper Johnson "Mother, Daughter, Sister, Aunt, Cousin, Daughter-in-law." She will be with you All the days of Your Lives. She was funny, exciting and ambitious. When I think of her, I immediately smile (one of her gifts)."When you look up at the sky at night and see the stars - think of them as "porch lights" welcoming Her HOME." I pray for peace, comfort and strength for you in the days/weeks/months ahead. The Lord is our Shepherd - follow him. He will pick you and carry you when you can't stand. Let Go and Let GOD. Much Love, Bobi Wilson (Tera's Mom)

Dear Samba and Marinba

You have my deepest sympathy in the lost of your mother. Know that God has promised a gift of eternal life. As you go through God is with you for He said He would never leave you or forsake you. Though she is no longer here on earth she will always be in your heart. Stay strong and trust and believe in God, our father, who will see you through this time.

God's Blessings always be with you.

Ms Wise(David's Mom)

Marimba,

My heartful sympathies go out to you and your family. Find comfort in knowing that you have the hope of seeing your mom again very soon. Take care of yourself. Cry when you need to and be strong when you need to. Love ya.

Samba and Marimba,



I just found out today; I am deeply sorry to hear about your mother. She was so sweet to my brother (David Wise-deceased) and myself in high school.



I know that your mother is so proud to have both of you as her children.



May God continue to bless you and strengthen you through this difficult time.



Sending much love,



Sharon Young (David Wise's sister)

Former Classmate-Schenley High School

Dear Marimba and Samba:

"To be absent from the body, is to be present with the Lord"...2 Corinthians 5:8. I'm going to miss her loving spirit and our special friendship we shared.

Dear family,

Steph and I grew up together and shared many wonderful times. We were so blessed to be reunited as adults. I will never forget the blessing of sharing Thanksgiving at Marimba's (what a feast!!) and the great fellowship we had. About 3 weeks ago Steph called me and WHAT a blessing to hear her voice strong and ever positive. She is now "walking the streets of gold" . Praise God!

Love

Erma Batch Hunter

My heart goes out to the Johnson Family. I will keep you in my prayers.

Marimba, Samba and Family I am so saddened by the loss of your mother, daughter, dear family member. I can remember talking to her at various intervals; no matter what, she was always so inspiring and upbeat. She was so caring, so supportive , vivacious and spirited. She was a person who loved life and made others feel what she felt in life - "Live it to the fullest." Marimba your mother will live on in you. Your love for life, children, friends and your smiles are all gifts from your mother. Samba I don't know if we ever really met, but I'm sure some of those traits are with you as well. May God keep you all during this difficult time and in the many days ahead. Look toward the sky and I'm sure all the sun and stars you see will be your mother shining her bright, life giving encouragement down and letting you know she is still with you in spirit. God will Bless and hold you CLOSE! RaSheeda, Tani and Akhir's Mom.

Dear Samba and Marimba:



I offer my sincere sympathy and prays the Lord will keep you in his care. My husband and I send our prayers with you and your family. Your mother and I go way back as children we played together at (Sheila and Jenny house) when she come to Clairton. Your mother and I became very close the last three years. I'll will always remember her encouragement when I became the Director at(Clairton Public Library). I will miss our talk and going to meetings together.

God bless you, Love

To the Family:

I met Stephanie at Pitt, and we worked together on several AAAC things together. She organized a great Homecoming Weekend of events several years ago, and I will always remember her for what a fantastic job she did. God bless each of you and remember to celebrate the good moments you had with her.

To the Cooper and Johnson Families,



Stephanie and I grew up together. She and her family were my cherished next door neighbors on Willow Street in McKeesport, and I have never forgotten all the good times we had as children. I vividly recall the last time we saw each other and how I noticed that she had maintained her ever-loving and cheerful spirit throughout the years. I am happy that God chose her for my friend and neighbor. She always brought sunshine into any room she entered, and today, I am sure that heaven is aglow and beaming with her presence. Steph, please give my mother a special hug for me.



Love,

Bobby

Dear Samba and Marimba,

I offer my sincere sympathy and trust the Lord will keep you in his embrace. Your mother and I go back a long ways. We lived next door to each other (where your grandparents live)when we were young and she was one of my bridesmaids. We last talked a few years ago and she spoke so lovingly of both of you. Eventhough we didn't talk often over the years, whenever we did it was as if we never lost a beat --that was Stephanie. I'll always remember her endearing personality.

God Bless,

Dear Johnson Family:



I am sorry to here about the loss of Stephanie. She was one of the sweetest persons that I have ever met. She was so awesome working with the children.



My sons and I send our prayers with your family so God will send you comfort and provide peace of mind to each and one of you. We know that "we all will be born and we all will die", but when it actually happens it is so hard to cope with sometimes.



Just know that she has made an impact on so many lives including, Deborah, James and Justin Lee. She will be dearly missed!



Love,



Deborah L.Lee

I will misss Stephanie, I'm glad that we had the chance to know each other. My prayer is that the Lord comford the family is these trying days ahead.

Bob is dancing all over heaven, now that he is finally reunited with his Steph.

Dearest Samba and Marimba,

My sincere condolences on the passing of your beloved mother. I know how much she loved both of you. You are in my daily prayers.

Sincerely and fondly,

Miss Sharon Damiani

My Sister-friend, you have been a life-long friend (40 yrs) and I will miss your laughter. I love you in life, and will love you forever.

You will always be close to my heart. I can see you now dancing in your new Home. Say hello to my Mom and Dad.