Elder Cornelius Emanuel Johnson

Cornelius Emmanuel Johnson was born on November 22, 1944, to Virginia Johnson and Hoover Garrison. He spent many of his formative years surrounded by love and guidance, particularly with his Aunt Omelia Foreman and his Grandmother Annie R. Garrison, who played a meaningful role in shaping his life.
He received his education through the Marion County Public School System, where he developed the values of discipline and perseverance that would guide him throughout his life. Cornelius devoted 47 faithful years of service to Seminole Feed, where he was known for his strong work ethic, dedication, and near-perfect attendance. His commitment and reliability were a testament to his character and integrity, earning him the respect of colleagues and leadership alike.
Elder Cornelius gave his life to Christ at an early age, beginning a lifelong walk of faith that guided every step of his journey. A devoted and faithful member of the Church of God, he served God and his community with humility, joy, and unwavering commitment. His service spanned many callings, including Sunday School teacher, member of the music ministry, and church bus driver, always willing to work wherever he was needed. For more than 40 years, Cornelius faithfully served as Superintendent of Sunday School, shaping generations through his leadership, wisdom, and love for God's word. After completing his ministerial studies, he answered a higher calling as a Licensed Exhorter Minister, continuing to pour his life into the service of the lord and his people.
On March 13, 1965, Cornelius was joined in holy matrimony to the love of his life, Mae Bertha Griffin, beginning a covenant of faith, devotion, and enduring love that spanned more than sixty blessed years. Together, they built a legacy rooted in God, family, and unwavering commitment.
He leaves behind a treasury of precious memories to be cherished by his devoted wife, Mae Bertha Johnson; his beloved children: Shirley V. Johnson (fiancé, Gabriel), Sabrina V. Johnson-Woodard, Shana V. Johnson, Isaiah E. Johnson (Sabrina), Ira Johnson (Joanne). He was preceded in death by his son, Phillip Johnson, who was lovingly embraced by God at birth.
Cornelius' legacy continues through the lives of his sixteen grandchildren, six great-great-grandchildren, and four great-great-grandchildren, each a living testament to the generations of love he nurtured.
Sisters: Lorine Brooks-Hill (Robert), Delois Patterson (James), Barbara Garrison, Wanda Gail Poole, Harriet Sears, Angela Howard, Sherrell Sapp, Valerie Howard, Carol Calvin, and Doretha Cobarris.
Brothers: Hoover Garrison Jr (Barbara), James Garrison, Roger Howard (Shirley), Charles Cobarris (Betty), Ramonda Howard.
Preceded in death: Mothers Omelia Foreman and Virginia Johnson- Howard, Father Hoover Garrison Sr, Loyce McCullough (Best Friend), Shirley Harris, Doris Cobarris, Brian Garrison, Jimmy Garrison, Darrell Howard, Christopher Howard, Carlos Howard, Nicholas Young, and Marcus Nelson.
Sisters in Law: Mozell Howard, Betty Howard, Marion Garrison Williams.
His heart also extended beyond bloodlines, as he lovingly claimed and guided his Godchildren,
Elaine Mayers-Murray, Lajuana Henry, Altheria and Barbara Evans, Stephanie (Amos) Captain, Beverly (Andre) Thomas, and Dawn Evans. Bonus child- in- love Pamela Taylor and Special Cousin/Daughter Sara McNary, including a host of uncles, aunts, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who love and adore Elder Johnson dearly.
His life was a reflection of love given freely, faith lived boldly and a legacy that will echo through generations.