On the afternoon of Saturday, August 22, Helen Johnson peacefully took her last breath with family at her bedside. Helen was born and raised in the Mt. Olive, Alabama community and although she spent significant portions of her life in North Carolina, Illinois, and Tennessee, she always considered Mt. Olive to be home. She was an active member of Calcedonia Baptist Church until 2019, when she moved to Knoxville, Tennessee, to live with her son and his family. Helen enjoyed sewing, crafts, word puzzles, playing cards, cooking and sharing good southern food, and traveling. Above all, she treasured time spent with family and friends. She was a devoted daughter, sister, wife, mother, grandmother, and cherished friend to many. A servant at heart, Helen was the primary caregiver for her aging mother during the final years of her life. Her home was always open, whether for family gatherings, celebrations, or as a welcoming place for loved ones in need of a place to stay. Her kindness, generosity, and unwavering love for her family touched countless lives. During her final days, Helen took comfort in her faith and her trust in her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. She ran her race faithfully and well, leaving behind a legacy of love, service, and devotion. Those who knew her were blessed by her presence, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who loved her.

Helen was preceded in death by her husband, George Wille Johnson; her parents, George W. Pair and M. Evie Pair; her brothers, "Bud" Pair, "Buck" Pair, "Buddy" Pair, and Donnie Pair; and her sisters, Lorene Torbert, Trannie Holt, Joyce Breckenridge, and Josephine Payne.

She is survived by her son, Daryl Johnson; his wife, Laura Johnson; and their two children, Hannah Johnson and Jonah Johnson. In addition to her son's family, she is survived by her two sisters, Sue Jerrell and Johnnie Robinson; numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews; and many cherished friends. Among those who held a special place in her heart were her nieces, Lynn Angle, Gale Breckenridge, and Barbara Suchey; and Eloise Blankenship, a dear friend. The love and friendship they shared were a source of great joy and comfort throughout her life.

There will be a graveside service for Helen at Creek Hill Cemetery on Saturday, Sept. 5, 2026 at 2:00 PM.

In lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society in my mother’s name. Donate by Mail: American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 6704. Hagerstown, MD 21741