Mary Lou Johnson

Mary Lou Dorough Johnson passed away September 22, 2024 at the age of 82. Our beloved Mama and other Mama “Udda Mama”’s life work was raising her four daughters and her precious grandchildren and many, many of the girl’s friends.

She was born January 3, 1942 to the late Willie H. and Ruth Kennington Dorough. Mama had a heart that never wanted anyone to feel alone, especially during the holidays. She would always insist that those without a place to go come join the family, making everyone feel welcome. Her home was open to all, and her warmth and generosity left lasting impressions on those fortunate enough to be in her presence. 

She was preceded in death by her sister, Vonne Sanders, identical twin sister, Sue Graben and precious son-in-law, Steve Anderson.

She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, Travis Johnson; daughters, Lisa Anderson, Leslie (Charlie) Skelton, LuAnn (Ray) Roberts, Allison (Dean) Smith; extended daughters, Amy Hale, Lisa Bamberg, Cody Elliott and Tammy Sims; grandchildren, Courtney (Jason) Ellison, Will (Amanda) Anderson, Kelly (Jet) Anderson, Katy (John Alan) Olinger, Kent Skelton, Meredith (Michael) Hill and Cole Smith; eight great-grandchildren, Clay Ellison, Ella Ellison, Brantley Anderson, Weston Anderson, Caroline Anderson, Dale Olinger, Georgia OIinger and Kensley Hill.; dear friend, Wanda Guthrie; special caregiver, Nese Burton; her baby (our little brother), Buttons Johnson and a host of nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be Wednesday, September 25, 2024 at 2:00 p.m. at Elkdale Baptist Church with Rev. Jonathan Brown officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday evening from 5:00-7:00 p.m. at Lawrence Brown-Service Funeral Home. The family will have a private burial, where she will be laid to rest at Harmony Memorial Park in Lanett, Alabama.

Pallbearers will be Jason Ellison, Jet Anderson, John Alan Olinger, Michael Hill, Will Anderson and Cole Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Darrell Kendrick and Richard Strickland.

In lieu of flowers, you may consider making memorial donations to Elkdale Baptist Church.