Etta Johnson

Etta Mae Barrow Johnson, a cherished sister, mother, aunt, grandmother, great-grandmother, and cousin, known for her impeccable sense of style, captivating beauty, and famous popcorn balls, passed away peacefully in hospice care in Houma, LA. She was 79 years old.

Visitation will be held from 10:00 am until Celebration of Life at 11:00 am on Saturday, January 25, 2025 at Mt. Olive Baptist Church 3076 West Main St. Gray, LA 70359. Burial following in Mt. Olive Baptist Church Cemetery.

Born September 2, 1945 in Gray, LA, to Emily Howard and Charley Barrow, Sr., Etta Mae grew up on the bayou surrounded by the love of her large family. She accepted Christ on August 14, 1960, and was baptized at Mt. Olive Baptist Church.

As one of nine children, Etta Mae spent her childhood enjoying life on the water, cooking with her mother and aunts, playing with her siblings, and listening to her father's vivid stories. She had a passion for cooking, singing, and dancing, talents that brought joy to those around her.

Etta received her education in Terrebonne Parish public schools, graduating from Southdown High School. After high school, she married Leroy Johnson, and together they raised four daughters: Cheryl, Tonya, Deidra, and Meiko. Etta devoted herself to motherhood, ensuring her daughters received a strong education and instilling in them values of independence and financial security.

In addition to her dedication as a mother, Etta worked in customer service for over 30 years and was a faithful member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. At Mt. Olive, she sang in the senior choir and served as a youth advisor, reflecting her deep commitment to her community and her faith.

Etta's generosity and altruistic spirit were unmatched. She had a profound passion for helping others and a deep empathy for the human condition, leaving an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Etta Mae was preceded in death by her husband, Leroy Johnson; her beloved daughter, Meiko Johnson; her parents, Emily and Charley Barrow; three brothers, Earl, Joseph, and Charley Barrow, Jr.; and two sisters, Doris Mae Farrar and Louise Barrow Duckett.

She is survived by her three siblings, Richard Barrow, Dr. Anita Barrow-Morrell, and Randall Barrow; her daughters, Cheryl Johnson, Dr. Tonya Thomas (Rodney), and Deidra Johnson; her seven grandchildren, Reivin, Jeren, Jemiere, Ian, Drexi, Tai, and Dalain; her two great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

Etta Mae will be remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her commitment to her faith, and her vibrant personality that lit up every room. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those she touched.