Mary Elizabeth Q. Johnson

Having celebrated her 100th birthday this past Valentine’s Day, Mary Elizabeth Q. Johnson passed away November 6, 2016 at Brighton Gardens in Charlotte, NC. She was born in Clay, KY on February 14, 1916, the oldest daughter of the late Daron and Verna Mae McGill Quirey. Her two beloved sisters, Anna Q. Hortin, Carmi IL and Matilda Q. Fortenbery of Charlotte also preceded her in death.

Mary Elizabeth graduated from Clay High School and earned a BA degree in Business Administration from Murray State University. Upon graduation, she taught elementary school in Clay while waiting for the great love of her life, Vernon Lee Johnson to return home after serving in the Pacific during World War II. They were at last married December 22, 1946 and spent the next 64 years together.

After their marriage, Mary and Vernon lived in Tennessee where she was a high school business teacher for over 45 years. She also served on the Board of Directors of West Kentucky Bank for 30 years, including six years as Chairman.

Mary was a devout Christian and a member of Pritchard Memorial Baptist Church. Prior to moving to Charlotte in 2001 to be near family, she and her husband were active members of Parkway Baptist Church in Goodlettsville, TN for many years.

She is survived by a number of nieces and nephews and their families, including Roger Hortin (Karen), Carmi, IL, Mary Jane H. Lim (Wellman), Prattville, AL, David Fortenbery (Nancy) and Megan F. McCormick (Mac) of Charlotte.

As kids, Mary played games with us, took us shopping, taught us to play Rook. We went on trips together. She sent us notes on every birthday with money tucked inside. Her visits always meant fun with lively conversations and lots of laughter. She had a penchant for questions because she was interested in us, because she cared. She was present for every special occasion; always there when we needed her. We were perhaps the children she never had; she was in many ways like a second mom.

The family would like to express their gratitude to the staff of Brighton Gardens and Hospice for their compassionate care of our aunt. Memorials may be made to Hospice & Palliative Care Charlotte Region. The family will be gathering next spring to celebrate the life of Mary Elizabeth with a graveside service led by Rev. Bobby Morrow. There will be tears but lots of smiles…as we remember.