Ellen Ruth "Rudy" Johnson

Mrs. Ellen Ruth (McLean) Johnson, "Rudy", age 76, of Cameron, NC, transitioned to eternal rest on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at her residence.
The Obituary
Ellen Ruth "Rudy" Johnson, of Cameron, North Carolina, went home to be with the Lord on October 8, 2025. She passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by her loving family. Ellen Ruth Johnson was born on September 23, 1949, in Raven Rock, North Carolina, to the late Jessie J. McLean and Effie R. McDougald (Lyles).
Ellen attended J.S. Waters School, and Shawtown High School and graduated from WB Wicker High School. She later earned an Associate Degree in Business Administration from Dickerson Business College in Washington, D.C. and continued her studies at Howard University's School of Divinity.
Ellen was united in marriage to Jeffrey L. Johnson on April 27, 1984, and together they built a beautiful life grounded in faith and family.
She was a devoted mother to Felicia (Jimmy), Ursulla (Richard), Latosha (Christopher), Maurice, Kentrelle (Tiara), and Jackelynette (Nathan), Ellen was lovingly known as "Grandma" to Trenice, Jimmy, Brandon, Jerry'a,Tieara, Alisha,Rishon, Richard, Raisia, Marquael, Matriece, Sinara, Kentrelle, Kennedy, Kenyon, Kengston, Zariyah, Xavier, Syriah, Shanari, Makayla,Malik, Joelyn, and Journee, and a proud great-grandmother to Reniyah, Alyssa, Brandon, Shemar, Da'Maury, Alonzo, Andrinae, Jermani, Jeremiah, Diontay and D'zyiah.
She is also survived by her beloved siblings: Jessie, Stanley, Erma, Miles (Leacie), Paula, Jeffery, Mark, Michael, Stacey and Shirley. Her brothers and sisters-in-love: Lamont (Angela), Willie (Drucilla), and Debra (Wilbert), Waymon, and Joyce Kay and a host of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins who will forever treasure her memory.
She was preceded in death by her siblings David, Randolph, Beverly, and John.
Ellen dedicated 35 years of distinguished service to the Department of the Navy as a Procurement Specialist. Throughout her career, she was known for her exceptional professionalism, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Her colleagues admired her integrity, attention to detail, and willingness to mentor others. Ellen approached her work as a reflection of her faith and values-always striving to do what was right, treating others with respect, and giving her best in every task. Her dedication and dependability earned her the respect of both her peers and supervisors, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of working with her.
Ellen's professional life mirrored her deep spiritual foundation. In 1980, she rededicated her life to the Lord and devoted herself fully to ministry and service. On May 26, 2018, she was ordained as an Associate Pastor at Redemption Church under the leadership of Dr. David Venable.
A faithful member of her church, Ellen was actively involved in the outreach ministry, volunteering with both the food pantry and clothing ministry. She also shared her gift of hospitality by catering meals for church events, using her talents to bless others through love and service.
Ellen was a woman of strong faith who prayed fervently and lived each day guided by the Word of God. She loved the Lord with all her heart and sought to reflect His grace in all that she did. Known for her honesty and compassion, she spoke truth with kindness and conviction. Above all, Ellen cherished her husband and family, loving them with her whole heart and soul. She shared 41 beautiful years of marriage with her devoted husband, Jeffery Johnson. Their union was a true partnership, grounded in faith, love, forgiveness and mutual respect. Together, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and prayer- a reflection of the deep bond they shared. Ellen and Jeffery supported one another through every season of life, celebrating joys and facing challenges hand in hand. Their marriage stood as a testament to God's enduring love and the power of commitment, leaving a lasting example for their family and all who knew them.
In her personal time, Ellen enjoyed fishing, gardening, shopping, reading, and solving crossword puzzles. She delighted in cooking for family and friends, bringing loved ones together with her meals. She also cherished watching her favorite shows, including Jeopardy, Wheel of Fortune, and her newfound love Mountain Men.
Ellen was blessed with a circle of devoted friends who were like sisters to her -Belinda, Elder Motley, Shirley Ann, and Dorothy - whose love and companionship brought her great joy throughout her life.
She will be deeply missed by her devoted husband of 41 years, Jeffery Johnson; her loving family; and all those whose lives she touched with her kindness, faith, and generosity. Though her presence will be greatly missed, her spirit will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved her. We rejoice in knowing that she is resting peacefully in the arms of Jesus, where there is no more pain or sorrow-only everlasting joy.
"To my family - thank you for loving me so deeply. Carry that love forward; it's my legacy in you."
"We do not own copyrights to the background music."
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Professional services entrusted to Knotts Funeral Home-Sanford, NC