Deborah D. Johnson

Deborah Denise Johnson, daughter of the late Elsie W. Smith and Preston T. Harris was born on May 20, 1952, in Baltimore, Maryland. Deborah (also known as Waltzie) was educated in the Baltimore City Public School System. She graduated in the top ten percent of her class at Edmondson High School. Later, she attended the Edmondson/Westside Adult Center, where she graduated with a 90% average in word processing/computer applications. Deborah held several positions, including Assistant Manager for Fair Lanes Bowling Center (Snack Bar), Office Manager for HAI Management, and dedicated 42 years of service to the College of Notre Dame of Maryland, where she received the Distinguished Staff Award in 1999 and the President Medal in 2012. Deborah was a devoted member of Oak Street AME Church since 1999, serving on the Usher’s Board a President. During her time at Oak Street, she also became a Trustee, Pastor Aide Member, Stewardess, and faithfully drove the church van. On Sunday, March 1, 2026, after serving off and on while assisting New Cornerstone Baptist Church, she officially joined the church under the leadership of Bishop Melvin R. Rascoe. Deborah hit the ground running and began working to revamp the church’s Missionary Circle while serving as an usher. Deborah loved her family and her church family and took pride in helping others wherever and whenever she could. The holidays were especially meaningful to her because she loved sharing with others. On September 15, 2001, she was united in holy matrimony to Ernest Johnson, who cherishes her memory. When you saw one, you saw the other. She also leaves to cherish her memory: three children, Kenise English, Jamna Rosber (Tavon), and James Thomas; six brothers, Eric Tasco (Francine), Anton Harris (Toni), Preston Harris Jr. (Rhonda), Haywood Harris (Toni), Clarence Harris, and Dwayne Harris (Kathy); sister, Karen; stepsister, Denise; two stepchildren, Tyshawn and Tarik; five grandchildren, Jabrae English, Dontae Epps, Desiree Rosber, Danielle Rosber, and Gerria Brown; seven step-grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; two special friends, Reverend Patricia Thompson and LaKisha Braham; her church family, along with a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. “A Message to My Family from Deborah” I love you all so very much. You all are my world. May God always shine His love over you all. Don’t grieve for me; I’m following the path God laid for me before I was born. I took His hand and went with Him when He called my name, and I could not stay another day. If my passing has left a void, please fill it with the joy of memories. My life has been full. I savored much, good friends, good times, and loving touches. Know that I will always be with you.

Tributes

Deborah D. Johnson

May 20, 1952 - July 11, 2026