Karen Marvella Johnson

Sunrise: March 30, 1940 Sunset: November 13, 2025 Today, we honor the life and legacy of Karen Marvella Johnson, a devoted woman of faith and the final surviving sibling of her family line. Born to Thomas Buckles Sr and Lillie Buckles she was blessed with a strong family foundation built on love, sacrifice, and resilience. As the last of her brothers and sisters to transition into glory, her passing marks the closing of a remarkable generation. Born on the Southside of Chicago during a time of challenge and change, Karen did not complete high school, yet she achieved more than any diploma could signify. She dedicated her life to God, family, and service. Her home was a place of no nonsense, warmth, nourishment, and prayer. She raised her children with unconditional love and extended that same love to countless others. Over the years, she adopted three children, opened her home to foster children, and served as a second mother to many who needed comfort, guidance, and stability. Karen was a caregiver in every meaning of the word. Whether supporting her own children, tending to relatives, or caring for church members and neighbors, she gave her wholehearted support. Her hands were always busy-cooking, comforting, serving-and her heart was always open. A faithful servant of the Lord, she volunteered tirelessly in her church community. From ushering and helping with Sunday programs to preparing meals and supporting youth ministries, she lived her faith through action. Her quiet strength, gentle humor, and unwavering commitment to God touched all who encountered her. She was preceded in death by her parents, Thomas Buckles Sr and Lillie Buckles; her siblings Thomas "Sunny-man" Buckles, Thomas "Tommy" Buckles, LaVance Buckles, James Stallworth, Annette Buckles-Ray, Alberta C Stines, Lillie Rose Burney, Whilmetta Harrell, Alma Robinson; her beloved spouse Ramie Johnson. Though she lived a humble life, her impact was profound. Her legacy lives on in the generations she nurtured, the lives she touched, and the love she planted in every heart she encountered. Karen is survived by Sons; Darold (Cathy) Johnson, Kevin (Kim) Johnson, Albert (Melissa) Ridgeway. Adopted sons; Rafael, Robert, Rodney. Grandchildren; Taja Nicole, Devin, Nia, Julian, Nevaeh Olivia. Great-grandchildren; Jada, Tru, Zander Messiah, Zayn Ellijah, Zaida Ann, Hendrix Rajoh. and a host of family, friends, and church members who will forever cherish her memory. Her journey is complete. Her labor is done. She now rests in the loving arms of the Lord. May her spirit continue to guide us, inspire us, and remind us of the power of a life lived with purpose, compassion, and faith.