Elsie Christine Johnson, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, and respected businesswoman, passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of love, entrepreneurship, and community service. She was born on July 31, 1932, in Charleston, Mississippi, to Sue Scott Cosby and Equart Earl Cosby.
A visitation will take place on Saturday, May 10, 2025 from 10:30am – 11:30am at Scanio-Harper Funeral Home in Temple.
A graveside service will be held following the visitation at 1:00pm at Bellwood Memorial Park in Temple.
Elsie attended Clarksdale High School, eventually meeting the love of her life, Delroy Johnson. They were married on June 3, 1949, in Clarksdale and were blessed with one son, Tom Johnson. Tom went on to serve with distinction as a Texas Highway Patrol officer in Rotan, Texas, until his retirement. He preceded them in death in 2015.
In 1968, Elsie and Delroy moved to Temple, Texas, where they became successful entrepreneurs after being selected to open a Hancock Fabrics store. As owner/operators, they turned the store into one of the most successful locations in the South. Elsie later partnered with her friend, Virginia Brookshire, to open The Christmas Place in downtown Temple in 1988. Their store became a cherished destination for holiday decorations and gifts until 1992, when Elsie and Delroy retired.
Elsie and Delroy were faithful members of local Baptist churches and strong supporters of the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, demonstrating their commitment to faith and education.
She is survived by her beloved grandson, Marty Cleckler of Lubbock, and two great-granddaughters, Kaitlyn of Dallas and Lauren of Lubbock.
She was preceded in death by her husband Delroy, who passed in 2018, as well as her brother and sister-in-law Earnest and Carol Cosby, and her parents Sue and E.E. Cosby.
Elsie will be remembered for her grace, entrepreneurial spirit, and unwavering devotion to her family and community. Her legacy continues through the lives of those she loved and inspired.
