Life’s Reflections
Jesse Viola Johnson (Poonanny) was born on October 15, 1948 in Bartlett, TN to John Henry Johnson and Maggie Johnson. Viola attended Caldwell Elementary from 19521960. Her high school years were spent at Manassas High School from 1960-1966. Viola attended CAN school and worked for many families. Viola eventually became employed as a Lead Custodian with the Memphis City Schools until retirement.
Viola was baptized at the age of 13 at Promiseland Baptist Church on Reno Ave. As a young a young adult she joined North Hollywood Baptist Church. Later in life, Viola joined Greater Kerr MB Church under the leadership of Reverend James Hailey. It’s where she found her true calling -USHERING-
Sister Viola had a remarkable and unshaken faith. She was a faithful member, and nothing could stop her from attending church every Sunday. Sister Viola would always say “got to work while it’s day”.
Viola may be gone physically, but she leaves her spirit-filled energy, her will to serve, her laughter, and her dedication to be cherished by her two loving daughters. Monica Lashelle Hopson and Charlene Lavette Hopson. She has two grandchildren, Chris Deshawn Davis (Stephanie) and De’ Erika Tyshe’ Clements (Michael). Viola has five great-grandsons that she truly loved and adored… Chris D. Davis Jr, Michael E. Clements III, Auggie K. Davis, Macyn E. Clements, and Mylen E. Clements. She has one brother whom she loved and cherished Henry Williamson Johnson.
Viola was loved by many friends, neighbors, and church members. She enjoyed entertaining visitors at her home, and she would keep them laughing with her jokes and funny comments, but before the visitors left….. They had to go to the store to purchase her Coca-Cola, Maverick Cigarettes, BC, and a Honey Bun.
Viola loved her nieces and nephews unconditionally. Her favorite nephew was Steve Johnson, he always checked on her.
Viola, was proceeded in death by her parents. Four brothers Wade “Scooter” Hughes, James Stephenson, Willie “Pimp” Stephenson and Eddie Stephenson Jr. Two sisters Johnnie Mae Johnson and Dora Mae Johnson.
Thanks to everyone that helped in the care of Poonanny… Tina, Toya, Camela, Diane, and Stephanie.
“Heaven has gained a hardworking, faithful, and diligent servant.’’
Celebration of Life
Wednesday, April 30, 2025
12:00 Noon
Greater Kerr Missionary Baptist Church
678 Bethel Road
Memphis, Tennessee 38107
Reverend Tony Bridges, Officiant
Prelude
Processional
Opening Prayer & Scripture.........................................................................David Taylor
Musical Selection.......................................................................................Danetta Ewing
Poem...............................................................................................Michael Clements, III
Poem.......................................................................................................Macyn Clements
“Expressions of Love”
(Respectfully, Two Minutes Please) Family & Friends
Musical Selection.....................................................................................Countess Winter
Resolution...............................................................................................Alberta Williams
Musical Selection........................................................................Ashley Charisse Mackey
Eulogy...........................................................................................Reverend Tony Bridges
Recessional
“You’ve Just Walked Around of Me”
I try and cope the best I can
But I’m missing you so much
If I could only see you
And once more feel your touch. Yes, you’ve just walked on ahead of me
Don’t worry I’ll be fine
But now and then I swear I feel Your hand slip into mine
My Sweet Mom
Dear Mom “Phomammy”
I wish I had 10,000 tongues just to tell God, “Thank you for my sweet momma.”
Dear God, Heavenly Father, Thank You for blessing me with 54 wonderful years with the gift of my momma. Thank you!
“Therefore you now have sorrow; but I will see you again and your heart will rejoice, and your joy no one will take from you.”
John 16:22
The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Psalms 23
“A Silent Tear”
By Gaynor Llewellyn
Just close your eyes and you will see All the memories that you have of me Just sit and relax and you will find I’m really still there inside your mind Don’t cry for me now I’m gone For I am in the land of song There is no pain, there is no fear So dry away that silent tear Don’t think of me in the dark and cold For here I am. no longer old I’m in that place that’s filled with love Known to you all, as “UP ABOVE.
Myron White
Michael Clements, Jr.
Chris Davis, Sr.
Chris Davis, Jr.
Lorenzo Taylor
David Taylor
Steve Johnson
Wednesday, April 30, 2025 2:00 P.M.
