Sylvia E. Johnson

Sylvia Edna Rowlette Johnson, the fourteenth of seventeen children was born to Nannie and Samuel Edward Rowlette on July 14, 1921 in Baltimore, Maryland. She was called to eternal rest on Sunday, February 23, 2003.Sylvia was educated in the Baltimore City Public Schools where she was trained in cosmetology and served as a beautician for family members and friends.For approximately 18 years, Sylvia worked as a cashier for the Baltimore City Public School System and in later years, she provided childcare for her grandchildren and neighborhood children.Sylvia accepted Christ as her personal savior at an early age and was baptized at Fountain Baptist Church. She was nurtured and trained in Christian education through Sunday school and other ministries at the Fountain Baptist Church. She continued her Christian walk at central Baptist Church and later at Friendship Baptist Church. As a member of the Dorcas Missionary Ministry, Sylvia enjoyed visiting nursing home residents and lifting their spirits. She also enjoyed participating in worship services that were rendered to the Govans Manor residents by visiting churches.In 1941, Sylvia was married to Thomas Hugh Johnson. She was a loving wife and mother and believed strongly in family unity. Her children Evangeline, Ronald and Sheila were the focus of her life. One other son, Michael, preceded her in death. Sylvia worked hard to show her children special love and guided each of them to flourish in their own way. She was great encourager. In later years, Sylvia met and married James “BIM” Johnson, and they enjoyed many years of love and devotion until his death.For many years, Sylvia was also a member of the East Baltimore ELKS Lodge #1043. She also was a member of the Golden Age Club of the Govans manor Senior Center and, she participated as much as possible in club activities.Sylvia or Syl, as she was know, was a spunky, cheerful and caring person. She was also very loyal and dependable and never hesitated to help family, friends or strangers in time of need. Once you met her, you never forgot her! She was a true beauty inside and out and, she blossomed just like the many flowers she grew and nurtured.She leaves to cherish her memory one son, Ronald Johnson; two daughters, Evangeline Purnell and Sheila Gasque; one sister, Muriel West; one brother-in-law, Rev. Dr. M. J. Brackett; eight grandchildren, Michael, Ingrid, Richard, Adrian, Darrin, Tia, Travis and Tavon; four great-grandchildren, one great-great grandchild; two special daughters, Bernadette and Darlene; a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and many neighbors and special friends at Govans Manor.

Tributes

Sylvia E. Johnson

July 14, 1921 - February 23, 2003