Ruby Lee Johnson

Ruby Johnson Obituary

Ruby Lee Johnson, age 97, a long time Gary Resident transitioned on May 16, 2020. She was the true matriarch of her family. Very Outspoken, wise and a political activist before Civil Rights was a national movement. As a young woman, Ruby was mentored by Mrs. Morris. Together they went from door to door registering the great people of Gary to vote. She instilled in her family the importance of voting due the oppression witnessed by her mother who was born and raised in Arkansas. Ruby became the first black female street inspector for the City of Gary. Ruby also served as a third district precinct committeewoman for many years. Ruby was preceded in death by her mother, Minnie Lee Carson; father, Cleveland Carson; brother, Clifton L. Carson; husband, Abraham Johnson; daughter, Dolorys A. Rainge; grandson, Stephen G. Perry. She leaves to cherish her precious memories, daughter, Donya Perry; granddaughter, Linda (Douglas) Hopkins; grandson, Parmaley Keith Rainge; great-grandsons, Cedric Smith and Stephen C. Perry; great-grandchildren, Chianti Edwards; SeDonya Rainge, great-great grandchildren, Zaire Chisem, Jayni Dinkins; Jeremiah Alexander Jaxson Edwards, Isaac Johnson, Jr. and Lyric Rainge. Special nephews, Michael (Catherine) Carson and Eugene (Debra) Johnson, and Deniece Mabin, caregiver. Special niece, Mabel Johnson Garrett, and many other family members and friends. At the time of death, she was placed in the care of V.K. Ryan and Son of Columbia Tennessee. A Memorial Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.

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Published by Post-Tribune on May 31, 2020.

Memories and Condolences
for Ruby Johnson

5 Entries

Denise Mabin

June 14, 2020

I will truly miss Ms. Ruby, whom I considered as my second mother. I'll always remember spending nights at her home, her great cooking, celebrating birthdays and Bar-B-Ques at her home. God will continue to comfort her family. Love always from your other daughter Denise Mabin.

Glindia McClatchey

June 10, 2020

Donya, Linda, Keith, CJ and Stevie; My deepest condolences and May the Lord comfort you all as only HE can. You guys are my family I love you dearly, I know you well and you are not alone at this precious moment of such a gracious, eloquent and wise trail blazing lady. She was like a mother to me; She gave me wisdom, encouragement and inspiration. She was a wealth of knowledge and a no nonsense person; if you couldnt handle the truth, she was not the person to ask. Her determination and love of family was impressive. She was so proud of her daughters Dolores and Donya s accomplishment and their friendships...I called these three beautiful women the three amigos all three befriended me, loved me, encouraged and inspired me. In Mrs. Johnson latter days whenever I called shed say are you here or you in one of your travelled places? These women are/were Chefs, Interior decorators, entrepreneurs, Gardeners and a wealth of knowledge to their friends, family and the community. Simply put fruit bearers, God fearing and lovable..absolutely beautiful literally. Mrs. Johnson Thank you for wonderful memories; Take your Rest in the Heavenly Fathers Arm and May HE now say to you well done good and faithful servant.

Debra Farmer

June 8, 2020

I don't recall meeting Mrs. Johnson, but my mother spoke very highly of her and her daughter (my mothers longtime friend) was the essence of grace and class which I imagine came from her mother. To the family, my condolences.

The Bridges Family

June 3, 2020

We extend our deepest sympathy and prayers to the family of Mrs.Johnson. Our mother and her shared many cups of coffee and Winston cigarettes together. Mrs Johnson was the crossing guard for many years on 21st and McKinley (for Banneker School). During the winter months she didnt have to worry about going home and coming to the corner for the halfday kindergartens. My mothe would have that pot of coffee ready and they would eat and talk until 2:30 when school got out. She organized street parties for the kids in the neighborhood. 21st Avenue was blocked off from Grant Street to Taft. Well done Mrs. Johnson. You will be missed.

Geraldine Starks

May 31, 2020

My Condolences To you and your family. Mrs. Johnson was an Excellent House keeper and loved her Daughters. God bless you all

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