Johnnie Mae Galindez

With love and remembrance, we announce the passing of Johnnie Mae Galindez (née Nimmons), who transitioned on Friday, December 12, in Goodyear, Arizona, at the age of 73.

Born on October 25, 1952, in Brooklyn, New York, Johnnie was raised in her hometown before setting down roots in Newark, New Jersey, where she built a life anchored in family, resilience, and care. Later years found her in Arizona, where she continued to tend to what mattered most—her loved ones, her plants, and her sense of purpose.

If you knew her, you know Johnnie was tough as nails, meant what she said, and expected you to do the same—but she was also a big softie with a deep love of laughter. For many years, her voicemail ended with the words “Carpe diem,” a phrase that quietly reflected how she lived: present, determined, and forward-moving.

She loved her crafts, delighting in the art of making something from nothing, and nurtured her plants wherever space allowed, coaxing life from soil and every sunny corner she could find. A lifelong dog lover, Johnnie was rarely without a canine companion.

In March 2018, Johnnie graduated from the University of Phoenix with a Bachelor of Science in Business, an accomplishment she was deeply proud of. She decorated her graduation cap with the words:

“She Believed She Could, So She DID!”

A declaration that beautifully captured her spirit and her life.

Above all, Johnnie showed up for her children—steadfast and dependable—offering support, guidance, and hard-earned wisdom when it was needed most.

Johnnie is survived by her children Kenya Carmichael, Six Travis, John Galindez, and Sugarfoot; and her siblings Rosezina Corkum and Leonard Nimmons. She was preceded in death by her parents Johnnie and Gladys Nimmons, her husband Anthony Galindez, and her nephew Morgan Hill.

A private cremation has taken place. A Celebration of Life to honor her life will be held on Saturday, January 17, in Goodyear, Arizona.

Her love, lessons, and laughter live on in all who knew her.

May she rest gently in love and light.