Edith Virginia Johnson

To view the Livestream service for Ms. Edith V. Johnson, please visit the link below:
https://www.hdezwebcast.com/show/edith-v-johnson

What a Lady of Love ~ What a Life ~ What a Legacy

Edith Virginia Johnson was born on May 25, 1921, in Gulfport, Mississippi, parents of Hamp Johnson Sr. and Mary Johnson. In Gulfport, Edith's early years were marked by growth and nurturing, as she cared for younger children with her father's attentive supervision.

She was preceded in death by her parents; six brothers—Edward, Lee Ernest, Elbert Sr. (Minnie), Hamp Jr., Samuel (Lucinda), and Clarence and two sisters—Bernice (Edward) and Elizabeth. She was also preceded in death by her niece, Ernestine and nephew, Phillip Sr.

Edith earned her high school diploma from Gulfport High School in 1940. She was in the Capping Class of 1944 from Freedmen’s Hospital School for Nurses and graduated from the program in 1946. She was also an alumna of the prestigious Howard University in Washington, D.C.

What a Life ~ What a Love

Edith’s move to Chicago in the early 1950s marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter as she joined the team at Cook County Hospital. She officially retired on August 1, 1984, as the Charge Nurse of her ward—an outstanding employee known for keeping the doctors on their toes.

She was a dedicated member of St. Mark United Methodist Church in Chicago for over thirty years, where she made a profound impact on many lives. She established the Food Pantry, was an enthusiastic participant in the Camera Club, and was widely recognized throughout the congregation. With passion and dedication, she served as a member of the United Methodist Women organization and contributed significantly across multiple cities.

In the early 1980s, Ms. Edith returned home to Gulfport, reuniting with Haven Chapel United Methodist Church, where her father, Hamp Johnson Sr., had played a pivotal role in its founding. With her warm spirit and generous heart, she quickly became a beloved Adult Sunday School Teacher, Communion Steward, church photographer, and faithful servant—always ready to step in wherever there was a need. She was a steadfast source of inspiration for her fellow church members.

Ms. Edith frequently visited and attended church events throughout the coastal area, where she was well-known and deeply respected.

During her visits to Chicago, she was warmly welcomed at New Life Covenant SE, where she was met with love, admiration, and celebration. Ms. Edith loved thrifting and collecting vintage items. Ms. Edith's travels have taken her to numerous exciting destinations. Ms. Edith was an avid knitter and had a fascination with black cats.

Thanksgiving Dinners in Chicago were spent at Auntie's home and the drunk roast was the bomb.

Ms. Edith's motto was to be kind and trust the man above.

What a Legacy

She leaves to cherish her memory:

Nieces – Rosemary Edith, Emily (Emmett Sr.), Cynthia, Ericka, and Maya Nephews – Elbert Jr. (Marion), Michael
One loving great-niece – Tawana
Four generations of nieces and nephews Cousins and a host of other relatives and friends
Three caring caregivers – Meka, Ms. Gloria, and Mrs. Bea
And her beloved goddaughter, Audrey, whom she loved dearly. Her caring physician Dr. Camero and trusted mechanic Mr. Ronnie.

In celebration of her life and legacy, a visitation will be held on Saturday, July 12, 2025, at 10:00 am at Little Rock Missionary Baptist Church in Gulfport, Mississippi. Following the visitation, a heartfelt Celebration of Life will commence at 11:00 am, enabling family, friends, and community members to honor and remember Edith Virginia Johnson in a manner befitting her extraordinary essence.

Infinity Funeral Home extends our condolences to the family of Ms. Edith V. Johnson.  For inquiries, call 228-436-6722.