Allie Mae White Johnson

Allie Mae White Johnson
July 1, 1951 – May 28, 2025
Allie Mae White Johnson was born on July 1, 1951, in Shreveport, Louisiana, at the Confederate Memorial Center Hospital, to the late Napoleon White Sr. and the late Christine Shyne. She was the youngest of 14 children born to their union and grew up in the close-knit town of Cullen, Louisiana.
A bright and determined student, Allie was proud to be part of the Upward Bound program in her youth - a formative experience that opened doors to higher education and nurtured her early sense of calling. She went on to attend Grambling State University, where she met her husband, Earl Henry Johnson. The two were married on August 22, 1970, in Cullen, Louisiana, and began building a life grounded in love, purpose, and shared faith.
In 1972, Allie and Earl moved north to Midland, Michigan, where Earl accepted a position at The Dow Chemical Company. There, they raised their two sons, Darius and Brian, and built a home filled with warmth, strength, and deep spiritual grounding. Earl preceded her in death in 2004, but their love and partnership remained central to her story.
Allie accepted Christ at an early age and joined First Baptist Church of Cullen under the leadership of Reverend A.W. Grant. Her faith grew steadily throughout her life, and in Midland she became a devoted and active member of Emmanuel Baptist Church. Over the decades, she served faithfully as a Sunday School teacher for both women and high school girls, sang in the choir, and encouraged others through quiet leadership and deep intercessory prayer. She was a prayer warrior and a pillar of spiritual strength for many.
Her favorite Bible verse was Jeremiah 29:11 - "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future." This verse was not just one she recited; it was a truth she embodied. Her trust in God's plan carried her through life's joys and hardships alike, and she offered that same trust and encouragement to others in her gentle but steady way.
Allie was known for her grace, resilience, and quiet humor - and for the deep, abiding love she poured into her family. She adored her three granddaughters - Abigail Grace, Katherine Selah, and Isabelle Rose - who live in Goodyear, Arizona. Affectionately known as "Grandma J," she showed up in their lives with warmth, encouragement, and unwavering presence. Whether she was cooking a favorite meal, offering words of wisdom, or simply listening without judgment, Allie had a way of making those around her feel safe, seen, and deeply loved.
She shared a special and enduring bond with her daughter-in-law, Jamie Annette Johnson - a relationship marked by mutual care, deep respect, and many shared chapters of life. It was a bond both women cherished.
In January 2025, Allie was diagnosed with leukemia. True to her spirit, she fought - through chemo, through fatigue, through every moment - with courage and grace. She did not let illness define her. She remained present, faithful, and full of love until the very end.
Allie is survived by her sons: Darius Evans Johnson of Midland, Michigan, and Brian Edward Johnson and his wife, Jamie Annette Johnson, of Goodyear, Arizona. She is also survived by her granddaughters: Abigail Grace, Katherine Selah, and Isabelle Rose Johnson. Additionally, she leaves behind one brother, three sisters, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and dear friends - each of whom was touched by her strength, wisdom, and unwavering faith.
On May 28, 2025, at the age of 73, Allie went home to be with the Lord, passing peacefully in Auburn, Michigan. Her final days were spent in the care of the Toni & Trish House, a place of extraordinary compassion and dignity, for which the family is deeply grateful.
A Celebration of Allie's Life will take place at 1 p.m. Wednesday, June 4, 2025 at Damascus Church (formerly Emmanuel Baptist Church), 502 Cherry Street, with burial to follow in Midland Cemetery. Her family will receive friends at the church on Wednesday from 11 a.m. until the time of service. Repast (meal and fellowship) will be held back at the church following the cemetery. Those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider Allie's family.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ware-Smith Funeral Home in Midland.
The family deeply appreciates the prayers, memories, and love shared by so many during this time. Your support brings strength and comfort.