Catherine Johnson was born on February 28, 1933 in Montgomery, Alabama to Rosa Lee Johnson and Samuel L. Johnson, Sr.  She was the second of six children.  Catherine went to her heavenly home on Friday, December 19, 2014 at University Hospital in Cleveland, OH. In 1949 she married Garfield Lee, to this union one child was born, Minnie. After the unfortunate end of this union she later had a second child Edna, with partner Ervin Freeman. In 1959 she moved to Cleveland, OH where she met her lifelong partner, Cleveland “Joe” Thomas. They remained together until his untimely death in 1978.  To this relationship four children were born, Bonita (David), Betty (Bill), Tyrone and Darnella. Catherine was a dedicated mother, spending most of her time as a homemaker, caring for her children and later helping with the care of her grandchildren. Catherine dedicated her life to Christ at an early age and was a faithful member of Friendship Baptist Church, while growing up in her native Alabama. Upon moving to Cleveland she found a new church home at St. Phillips Baptist Church and was a faithful member for several years.  She later moved her membership and joined Christian Valley Baptist Church in 1978 where she remained a faithful member and worshipper until her untimely death. Catherine was a soft spoken, humble woman who enjoyed the simple things in life. She was also a strong willed, resourceful and wise woman, instilling the same qualities in her children and her grandchildren. She loved reading her Bible, cooking, sewing, shopping, and spending time with her children and grandchildren. She leaves to mourn her passing her six children, two sisters, Delma Lee (Jesse – deceased), Ethel Richardson (Arthur – deceased), two brothers, Samuel (Mary) and Nathaniel (Christine – deceased). She was preceded in death by her parents and brother Roosevelt (Wilma). She also leaves 11 grandchildren, 8 great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

We watched you as you slept away

We wanted so much for you to stay

But God was watching from above

And took you home to share his love.

Humbly Submitted

Your loving family

Funeral service Saturday, December 27, 2014 10:30am at Christian Valley Baptist Church, 12705 Buckeye Road. Family will receive friends at 10:00am. Public viewing Friday, December 26, 2014 12noon- 7pm at funeral home.