Edna Johnson Gaines

Edna Johnson Gaines, born on April 1, 1941, peacefully passed away on June 2, 2025, at the North Mississippi Medical Center in Tupelo. She lived a rich and fulfilling life, dedicating herself to her family, her faith, and her community.

Edna retired from the VA Medical Center in Memphis, TN, where she worked in Employee Relations. Her career was only one testament to her dedication; she was also a proud member of the New Salem Baptist Church in Iuka. She deeply loved the Lord, her church, and her family.

In her younger years, Edna enjoyed spending time on the water, boating, singing, and traveling. Gardening became another of her passions, bringing beauty and joy to her home. Edna had a special love for animals, volunteering at the former Alcorn Animal Shelter. She was compassionate towards any stray animals she encountered, always ready to lend a helping hand.

Throughout her life, Edna contributed significantly to her community. She helped establish the Tishomingo County Food Depot and the Iuka Baptist Clothes Closet. As a member of the Gideon Women's Auxiliary, she actively participated in various initiatives, including mission trips to the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina and missionary work with the Beautiful Feet organization in Fort Worth, TX, helping the homeless.

Edna is survived by her loving husband, Arthur E. Gaines; her daughters, Gerri Forrest Young (Scott) and Amy Urban (Tommy); her son, Rufus L. "Bud" Forrest III (Amy); her grandchildren, Ashley Nichols, Savannah Forrest, Bennett Forrest, Charles Forrest, Andrew Urban, and Alex Urban; her great-grandchildren, Laney Peters and Bobby Nichols; and a host of other friends and family members.

She was predeceased by her mother, Geraldine Johnson, and her father, Carlyle Johnson.

Cutshall Funeral Home in Iuka, MS, is entrusted with the arrangements. A Celebration of Life service will be held at New Salem Baptist Church in Iuka, MS, on July 26, 2025, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. An online guestbook may be accessed at www.cutshallfuneralhome.com. Memorials may be made in her honor to the New Salem Baptist Church Building Fund, the Tishomingo County Food Depot, or St. Jude’s Children's Research Hospital. 

Edna's spirit will live on in the hearts of those she touched, and she will be fondly remembered for her love, kindness, and unwavering faith.