Mrs. Carolyn Naydean Johnson

Carolyn Naydean Johnson was born on August 12, 1943, in Minden, Louisiana, to the union of Mack and Fannie Clark, both of whom have gone on before her. She is now joyfully reunited with them. She was one of five children, four who preceded her in death: her sister, Norma Sims (Luther), and her brothers Wilton Clark, Bobby Clark (Joyce), and Larry Clark (Janice). In 1944, the Clark family relocated to Detroit, Michigan, where Carolyn was educated in the Detroit Public School System. After spending her children's formative years as a stay at home Mom, Carolyn went on to earn her degree in nursing from Wayne County Community College (WCCC) and faithfully served in the nursing profession for decades, working in area nursing homes until her retirement in 2013. Her compassion, gentle spirit, and commitment to caring for others touched countless lives. In January 1969, Carolyn was united in holy matrimony to Gene Johnson, Sr. Together, they shared over 56 years of love, laughter and family- raising six wonderful children and building a home grounded in unyielding grace and love. She instilled in all of her children the importance of faith and going to church was not an option- it was the rule. The six siblings shared an unbreakable bond that is a direct result of the Godly qualities Carolyn instilled within all of her children. There was always music playing in their home- and extended family and friends could always be found enjoying the loving atmosphere that she created for all who were blessed to be in her company. She was an excellent cook and baker and her family loved to gather at her home for her incredible Sunday dinners. Carolyn accepted Jesus as her Savior at an early age, and continued her journey of faith and fellowship throughout her entire adult life. She was a devoted member of Smyrna Missionary Baptist Church for over 10 years. Under the leadership of Dr. Charles E. Marshall, Sr., she worshiped and served with great discipline and loyalty until her homegoing. Whether it was through her service as the Sunday School Superintendent, nurse, or her lifetime commitment to learning and growing in the ways of God, Carolyn's life reflected her love for the Lord and her desire to share him with everyone she encountered. She leaves to cherish her memory and celebrate her homegoing: her devoted husband, Gene Johnson Sr; her children, Pastor Anthony Clark (Twinice), Stephen Clark, who preceded her in death (Patricia), Deacon Gregory Clark (Felecia), Lisa Marshall (Pastor Charles), Gene Johnson Jr, and Chaundra Randle (John Sr.); eleven beloved grandchildren, Patrick, Stephone, Kimathi, Alexis, Derrick Jr. (Victoria), John Jr., Keenon, Kamau, Anthony Jr, Victoria, and Jacob; two precious great-grandchildren, Olivia and Matias; two brothers-in-law, AC Johnson (Ann) and David Johnson (Charmaine); two sisters-in-law Charlene Johnson and Ida McElfresh; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, church family, and friends. Carolyn's life was a testimony of faith, love, and service. Her legacy will continue to live on in the lives of her children and grandchildren, as well as those she nurtured, cared for, and inspired.