Jean Johnson Walters

Jean Walters, a devoted mother, grandmother, and pioneer, passed peacefully on December 3, 2025. Born and raised in Athens, Alabama, Jean was the 10th of twelve children and the youngest daughter of Evie and Leland Johnson. Her early years were marked by resilience and determination. When she wasn't in school, she worked in the cotton fields, yet still excelled academically-advancing two grades in a single year. At a time when educating girls was not a priority, Jean fought tirelessly to remain in school and graduated early, setting the tone for a lifetime of perseverance.
Soon after high school, Jean married and welcomed her first two children. She moved to Chicago, where she delighted in trying pizza for the first time-a story she loved to share. Returning to Alabama, she brought that joy back with her, making pizza for friends who had never experienced it before. After her first marriage ended, Jean remarried and had three more children. When that marriage ended, she courageously chose to raise all five children on her own, during an era when opportunities for women were limited. Her determination never wavered.
Jean built a remarkable career at Lockheed, where she worked for 30 years. Beginning in the secretarial pool, she steadily advanced to become a configuration manager-an achievement that reflected her tenacity, intelligence, and refusal to do anything halfway. Her colleagues admired her dedication, and her children benefited from her sacrifices, with several going on to college thanks to her hard work. After retiring from Lockheed, Jean continued to contribute her expertise as a contractor for Davidson before fully retiring.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jean's greatest joy was her family, the Auburn Tigers, and her beloved pets-mostly dogs, with a few cats along the way. In 2014, she moved to Virginia to be closer to her daughter Laura and her family, where she made many friends and enjoyed a vibrant social life filled with card games and outings. In October 2024, she returned to Alabama to be near her extended family, where she spent her final days surrounded by love.
Jean will be remembered as a selfless, independent woman who was fiercely loyal to those she loved. She had a smile for everyone and a wonderful sense of humor. Most of all, she had the ability to make everyone feel like family. She leaves behind a legacy of strength, devotion, and perseverance. Her family and friends will deeply miss her and will continue to be inspired by her legacy.
Family
Jean is survived by her brother, Donald Johnson (wife Catherine); her five children, Brad Lowery (wife Mitsuko), Jeanelle Pons (husband Joe), Christian Walters, Lisa Rogers (husband Brandon), and Laura Jordan (husband Mark); ten grandchildren, Kelly Klima (husband David), Cyndi Scates, Lindsey Gibson (husband Louis), Blake Rogers, Jake Scates, Josh Rogers (wife Bethany), Abigail Jordan, Mae Jordan, Jackson Rogers, and Leah Jordan; and four great grandchildren, Elijah Gibson, Will DuPont, Raynor Klima, and Josie Gibson, along with many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Evie and Leland Johnson; ten of her siblings, Stanley Johnson, Robert "Bob" Johnson, Margaret Sanders, "Buck" Johnson, Franklin Johnson, Jewel Smith, Charles Johnson, Eunice Richardson, James Johnson, and Douglas Johnson; and her granddaughter, Kimberly "Chips" O'Koi.
Gratitude
The family wishes to extend heartfelt thanks to the friends and caregivers who supported Jean with kindness and compassion during her final months. Your love and care brought her comfort and joy, and will always be remembered with deep appreciation.

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