Ms. Cora Alda Johnson

Cora Alda Bouls Johnson of Austin, Texas, is in eternal peace. Her journey on earth was for 88 years as of April 23rd, 2013. Cora was born number 11 of 13 of siblings to Etna "Edna" Augustine Theard and Reverend Madison Bouls. She was educated in New Orleans at McDonogh No. 35 Senior High School. She matriculated to Southern University, intent on becoming an English teacher; but her education took a difficult turn when she had to leave college in her sophomore year, a dream deferred. At this time Cora met Abraham Johnson, a Navy seaman. Before he left to serve in the Korean War, they married in New Orleans in 1945. Then, in search of new opportunity, Cora moved to New York City and found work at Woolworth's selling hit records at the music counter.She also worked as a domestic and baby-sitter. When the war ended, Abraham returned to Cora and they began a family. With two babies in tow, Abraham (Lenny) and Benjamin, Cora studied and became a licensed practical nurse. And they also opened Johnson's Barbershop, which is still business in the Bronx. Eventually followed two more children: Michael and Beverly. With Christian values and compassion for children without parents, the couple fostered another three children; one, Denise Burgess, is still a family member. After working most every facet of nursing, in 1995 Cora retired as a registered nurse and supervisor at Hebrew Hospital in the Bronx. Cora lived a Christian life and stayed active in the church community wherever she was, always putting God first in her life. In the Bronx she joined Trinity Baptist Church. In 1995 Cora moved to Austin and joined Zion Rest Baptist Church, established the first nurses' ministry at the church and put on health fairs. She also joined Bannockburn Baptist Church in Austin, particularly enjoying the Bible study group. She was also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Cora enjoyed traveling, the theatre, music, dancing, and parties. Her home hosted famous good times with dancing, food, and spirits; and her homemade gumbo was of legend. But most of all, she enjoyed taking care of and spending time with her family. Having her sibling, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren around always brought her joy. She leaves to cherish her memory: five children, Beverly (Michael Emery) Johnson, Abraham (Cheryl) Johnson, Benjamin Madison Johnson, Michael (Jacqueline) Johnson, and Denise Burgess; grandchildren, Kim, Chevon, Ben Jr.,Michael, Crystal, Adrian,Curtis, Duquoin, Duvall, Jamual, and Michael; four siblings, Alice St. Cyr, Sidney Theard, Edna Hunter, and Esther Smith; nieces, nephews, cousins, inlaws, and numerous friends. Her love will live in the hearts of all who knew her forever. Cora, Ma, Moe, Auntie, Grannie: We won't let you down.