Lelia V. Johnson

Lelia was the granddaughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. John Locker and the youngest daughter of the late Isabella Locker Chavis and the late Ira Chavis. Lelia’s brother, William Lewis, and her sister, Hilda Chavis Nelson, preceded her in death.Lelia was known only as “Benny” to most of her family and friends. The origin of this affectionate name is still a mystery. Benny was born in Baltimore, Maryland on May 9, 1924, May 5th and May 7th. These were all her birthdays and she annually celebrated each one with gusto.She was “Mom,” “Ma,” and Benny to James, Eunice, Vernetta, Anthony, and Tavon. Benny spoiled them all with love and tender care. She was truly their best friend.Benny who was educated in the Baltimore city public Schools labored hard at menial jobs. She took excellent care of her family and many other families some of whom were related while others were not. She cared for so many families and the children of those families grew up as siblings and cousins to her own children. Benny loved them all unconditionally and welcomed them as well as their friends into her home. Her own family increased with the birth of her nine grandchildren: Pamela, Angie, Thea, Damon, Terry, Tanya, Martinez, April, Michael, and Marvin. Benny was also blessed with 14 great grandchildren, one daughter-in-law, and one son-in-law. Late in life she acknowledged that she had a special fondness for all of her “Boys” which her girls had known for many years but they still loved Benny passionately.You could always count on Benny to care for and nurture you just as she did for her mother and father as well as the many other family members and friends. If ever you were sick and needed care, just call Benny. She would come to care for you toting her bag of Mary Janes, Mr. Goodbars and peanut brittle.There was always a good meal for everyone at “Benny’s House.” Her food specialties were unique and never duplicated much to her family’s dismay.Amazingly, Benny was always the same through all five generations of her family. She was strong in her faith, full of vitality, and a great humorist. She was a member of the Whitestone Baptist Church. She loved music and dancing and her involvement in these delights still evokes laughter and many great memories. Benny lived and enjoyed a full life. She was a valiant fighter until she succumbed to her illness on December 18, 2004.We rejoice in Benny’s home going knowing that she will always be loved and missed by a host of relatives and friends.

Tributes

Lelia V. Johnson

May 9, 1924 - December 18, 2004