Clora Johnson

Clora Lee Johnson was born on July 26, 1933, in Tallula, Mississippi,

the seventh of eight children born to Jessie James Flemming Sr. and

Jennie Lee Flemming. She was raised within the spiritual foundation of

St. James Missionary Baptist Church, where she was baptized at an early

age and nurtured in her faith.

As a young woman, Clora moved so live with her grandmother, where she

completed and graduated frem high school-an early reflection of her

determination and strength of character.

In 1955, she relocated to Chicago, Illinois, where she met the love of

her life, Joe W. Johnson Sr. Their union brought forth three children,

blending beautifully with three bonus sons to create one strong, loving family.

Clora enjoyed a long and admirable work history, culminating in over 22

years of service at Carl Gore Colored Card Co. Her spiritual journey

continued to flourish as she joined Grace Memorial Baptist Church under

Rev. Johnson, and later united with Greater Mount Calvary Missionary

Baptist Church under Rev. Eddicott Ivy, DD. There, she served faithfully

as Coordinator of the Crusade Board, offering leadership, dedication,

and unwavering devotion.

In September 1976, Clora became a proud member of the Order of the

Eastern Star, Ruth Chapter #2 in Mississippi. The following year, she

joined Easter Chapter #9 in Chicago, where she served as chapter

secretary for more than 40 years, earning deep respect and affection from her sisters.

Clora truly embodied the spirit of a Proverbs 31 woman-gracious, wise,

generous, and deeply rooted in her faith. Her extraordinary culinary

gifts were celebrated throughout Chicago, nourishing countless families

and communities. Her talents as a beautician, barber, and seamstress

enriched her neighborhood of North Lawndale and touched the lives of many.

Despite significant health challenges-including 32 years in remission

from cancer, a stroke, and other trials-Clora faced each battle with

courage, grace, and a steadfast faith in God. On November 28, 2025, the

morning after Thanksgiving, she peacefully received her wings at the age

of 92. Her long life was a blessing to all who knew her.

She is preceded in death by her parents, her seven siblings, her husband

Joe W. Johnson Sr., her son Joe W. Johnson Jr., her son-in-love Razzie

Watson Sr., and her grandson Razzie Watson Jr

Clora's legacy remains deeply cherished by her children:

Gregory Johnson Sr. (Mildred), Yolanda Johnson, Kimberly Little (Donald),

Anthony Johnson (Daphne), and Michael Johnson Sr.

She also leaves behind 17 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, a host

of nieces and nephews, her dear friends Willie Love and Mildred Howlett,

many "special daughters," and her Greater Mount Calvary MBC family.

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