Mae Dartson

Mae (affectionately known as Tina by her family) was born May 13, 1931, to John Lawrence Johnson and Mary Augusta Lewis Johnson, in Corsicana, TX. She was the oldest of seven children. Mae moved to Dallas, TX with her family during her youth, and graduated from Booker T. Washington High School. It was there, as a freshman, that she met the love of her life, Curtis Dartson, but their paths would cross years later resulting in marriage and a beautiful family. Mae and Curtis were married for over 50 years and had four children: Rickey, Orlando, Micaela, and Myrna.

Mae was a devout Catholic and life-long member of St. Peter the Apostle Catholic church, where she volunteered in many capacities. She hand washed and ironed the altar cloths, and prepared meals for the church and parish priest. Mae and Curtis not only raised their children in the church but also nurtured their faith and education by enrolling them in St. Peter Academy. Mae was well known by many at the school for her phenomenal fundraising abilities. Her efforts ensured that one of her twin girls were crowned queen each year of their attendance (alternating turns and years) by outselling everyone with the school’s World’s Finest Chocolate fundraiser. It was often said that Mae could “Sell ice to Eskimos” and she more than proved that. She was also a proud, dedicated member of The Knights of Peter Claver, Ladies Auxiliary, St. Fidelis Court #102 and enjoyed fifty-four years of uninterrupted service. She was the court’s oldest member.

Mae was also known for her striking beauty, grace, and style. She was always impeccably dressed and took great pride in her appearance. Mae was the epitome of class. She was a phenomenal cook and could replicate any recipe. Mae was a master at savory dishes and desserts. There was no dish she could not prepare. Mae was also very creative. She was a gifted seamstress and designed draperies, clothes, and elaborate costumes for her children. She had a love for decorating and collecting timeless pieces, particularly antiques, that filled her home. Mae loved flowers, gardening, and ensured her yard was a visual display of her favorite seasonal blossoms. She was loved by all who knew her. Mae was a fiercely loyal friend and second mother to many. Above all, she loved the Lord and immersed herself in personal bible study. Mae could always minister to any need a person had with a fitting scripture.

Mae is preceded in death by her parents; husband, Curtis Dartson; sons, Rickey and Orlando Dartson; sister, Annie Ruth Johnson; and brothers, Johnny Johnson, Louis Johnson, Matthew Johnson, and Claude Johnson. She leaves to cherish her memories her daughters, Dr. Micaela Dartson and Dr. Myrna Dartson; sister, Laura Ewing (Marvin); grandchildren, Natasha Kapasula, Ricky Dartson, Anastasia Dartson, Amanda Bishop, Christopher Reed, Orlando Dartson, Brittania Dartson, Jermell Dartson, Aaron Dartson; great-grandchildren, Chadney Harris, Casey Patterson, Cole Harris, Nasir Casso, Mia Dartson, Demarcus Rakestraw, Day’Cha Rakestraw, Dax’Zarious Rakestraw, Damion Reed, Korbyn Reed, Waylond Reed, and Tidus Reed; great-great grandchildren, Breon Daughtery, Camilla Dartson, Orlando King Dartson, Levi Smith, Valeri Walls, Maelee Rakestraw, Koa Rakestraw; goddaughter, Annelle Williams; and many cherished relatives and friends.

She is clothed in strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. When she opens her mouth, she does so wisely, on her tongue is kindly instruction. She keeps good conduct of her household, no bread of idleness for her. Her children stand up to proclaim her blessed, her husband, too, sings her praises. Proverbs 31:25-28