Elaine Ellis Johnson Cousins

Elaine Ellis Johnson, fondly known as GranLaney, was a remarkable woman who touched the lives of many. Born on February 13, 1925, in Memphis, Tennessee, she blessed us with her presence for 100 vibrant years before peacefully passing away on May 6, 2025, in Fredericksburg, Virginia.

Elaine’s life was a tapestry of love, resilience, and creativity. Raised in the Roman Catholic faith, she attended Sacred Heart High School and took secretarial courses at Memphis State College during World War II. Her dedication to her country was evident as she worked as a secretary supporting the war effort. It was during this time she met Hugh Johnson, and they married on July 19, 1945, at Sacred Heart in Memphis. Together, they embarked on a beautiful journey, creating a loving home on Dee Cove which soon expanded with the arrival of their three daughters, Sherrye, Merrye, and Peggy.

A devoted wife and mother, Elaine poured her heart into her family. Her talent as a seamstress was unmatched; she crafted exquisite clothing, dresses, and even wedding gowns for her daughters. Her artistic flair extended to her gardens, where she nurtured vibrant flowers, often earning blue ribbons for her efforts. Elaine’s green thumb and sewing skills made her an artist in her own right.

Beyond her family, Elaine was an active community member as she was deeply involved with the local Republican political party, championing their causes with passion. Known for her strong-willed and opinionated nature, GranLaney was a true Southern lady, resilient and ever-loving.

Elaine was predeceased by her loving husband, Hugh, and her parents, Elizabeth Fitzgibbon Ellis and Aristides K. Eliopoulos (Ellis). She is survived by her cherished daughters, Sherrye Willis, Merrye Meeks, and Peggy Herga, along with nine grandchildren: Chris Willis, Jonathan Willis, Anthony Meeks, Andrew Meeks, Helena McCuen, Merrye-Marie Christie, Amanda Olson, Nicholas Herga and seventeen great-grandchildren, each of whom she adored immensely.

A Graveside Catholic service will be held on June 21, 2025, at 11 a.m. at Elmwood Cemetery, 824 South Dudley Street, Memphis, Tennessee. Elaine will be laid to rest beside her beloved Hugh in their family plot.

As we bid farewell to GranLaney, we celebrate a life well-lived, filled with love, family, and countless adventures. Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Though we are saddened by her passing, we find comfort in knowing she is reunited with Hugh, watching over us with her ever-present love.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in her name to St. Jude Research Hospital, www.stjude.org.

Online condolences may be sent at www.mullinsthompsonfuneral.com