Willie Ruth Johnson

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In Loving Memory of Mother Willie Ruth Johnson

Willie Ruth Johnson, affectionately known throughout her community as "Momma Ruth," passed away peacefully at home on October 22, 2025, at the age of 93. She was born on September 30, 1932, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, to the late Olen and Ella Moss Johnson, delivered with the assistance of a midwife and named in honor of one of her beloved aunts.

Family Legacy

Mother Ruth leaves behind a rich family legacy. She is survived by three children: Darrin, Derek, and Lynette. She was also a devoted “stepmother” to five step-children— The late Charles (Mercury), and Alfred . (Surviving)- Joseph, Maurice, and Hutch—and four stepdaughters: (Surviving) Dolores and Tracy and the late Sheryl and Marshall.

Her eleven siblings included four brothers: (Preceded death) -The late Fred, Olen ,and Charles (Charlie). As well as the surviving Audrey (Mutt Cat). She was also blessed with six sisters: (Preceded death)- The late Ruby (Nail) Thompson , Lois Caldwell, Annie Luckey ,Virginia Glover, and Barber Daniels. As well as the surviving Agnes Moody and Hattie Marie Donegan.

Mother Ruth was a grandmother to 11 grandchildren and great-grandmother to eight, whom she lovingly helped raise and nurtured with unwavering devotion.

Spiritual Dedication and Church Service

Mother Ruth was a faithful servant at Rhema House of Prayer and Deliverance located in Staten Island .where she dedicated herself to praying , reading and teaching her grandchildren the Bible. She was a beacon of spiritual strength, displaying her charitable nature every Sunday morning through her gifts of song, dance, and joyful hand clapping during worship services. Her versatility and radiant spirit shined brightly among all who gathered to worship.

In April 2017, Mother Ruth was honored with a plaque in recognition of her immeasurable years of service, outstanding dedication, and faithful commitment to the church and her Lord and Savior—a testament to her steadfast devotion until physical limitations prevented her from attending.

Career and Service to Others

As a single mom, Mother Ruth worked tirelessly to support her family. She served as a Dietician aid at St. Vincent's Medical Center (now known as Richmond University Medical Center) for several years before transitioning to become a direct support professional at United Cerebral Palsy, where she served faithfully for 20 years before retiring. In 1997, she received a plaque of recognition commemorating her dedicated years of service to the UCP family.

Even in retirement, Mother Ruth's generous spirit remained undiminished as she selflessly supported and helped raise her grandchildren by any means necessary.

 A Heart of Gold

Affectionately coined the "Chicken Queen," Mother Ruth was beloved throughout Mariners Harbor and beyond. She was known for preparing mouth-watering chicken and baking delightful moist cakes, especially during the holidays—her culinary gifts brought families together and created cherished memories.

Though her piercing gaze might have suggested a stern demeanor to those meeting her for the first time, Mother Ruth possessed a heart of pure gold. She gave generously from her back—feeding the hungry, clothing the needy, and offering a helping hand to anyone in need.

 Personal Joys

In her leisure time, Mother Ruth found joy in helping plan family gatherings, cooking, sewing, singing , coloring, reading, and taking walks to Western Beef. She was an avid fan of daytime television, particularly "All My Children," and “treasured time spent enjoying meals at her favorite restaurant, Hometown (which she lovingly called the "Boofett" instead of buffet).

Closing Tribute

At first glance, some might have been intimidated by Mother Ruth's commanding presence, but those who truly knew her understood the warmth and compassion that lay beneath. She was a pillar of strength, a teacher of faith, a nurturer of children, and a beacon of unconditional love.

The God of Heaven has now called her home. We celebrate the extraordinary 93 years of life she lived and the indelible mark she left on all who knew her.

** Momma Ruth . We love you.**

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