Pearline Johnson

Mrs. Pearline Johnson, age 92, of Ypsilanti, MI, went home to be with The Lord on July 14, 2017.  A viewing will take place, Thursday, July 20, 2017, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM at the Mount Olive Missionary Baptist Church, 718 North Prospect Road, Ypsilanti, MI 48917.  A Homegoing Service will be held 11:00 AM Friday July 21, 2017, at Mt. Olive Missionary Baptist Church, Ypsilanti, MI, with a Family Hour starting at 10:00 AM until the time of service.  Cards and condolences can be sent to: Jerry Johnson, 1365 Lathers, Ypsilanti, MI  48197.  Arrangements by J. Gilbert Purse Funeral Home.  www.PurseFuneralHome.com

A CELEBRATION OF LIFE
In my Father’s house are many mansions: If it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. (John 14:2)
His Lord said to him, well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. (Matthew 25:21)

THE LEGACY
Words could never truly convey the profound love, admiration and respect the family has for our mother, grandmother, aunt and cousin.  We are confident that heaven has certainly gained in its welcoming of this marvelous woman to her eternal rest. We faithfully believe that the crown glory has been bestowed on this good and faithful servant.
Mrs. Pearline Johnson passed away July 14, 2017 after a brief illness. At 92 years old, she was born April 25, 1925 in Cataula (Harris County) Georgia. She was married to the late Reverend James Edward Johnson Sr. She was preceded in death by her parents Miles TIlman Pitts and Effie (Lowe) Pitts, maternal grandparents , John Henry and Dora Lowe, 14 siblings, Gwendolyn (daughter) James Edward Johnson Jr. (son). Pearline started her walk with Christ at a young age in CME church. In 1961, Pearline at the side of her husband (Pastor James Edward Johnson Sr.) planted the Mount Olive Baptist, under the leadership of the late Frank Roberson, Pastor, St. John’s Baptist Church. She moved with her family to Ypsilanti, Michigan in 1943. She gave birth to 11 children: James Jr. (deceased) Patricia, Gwendolyn (deceased) Peggy, Jerry, Jeffery, Jack, Julius, Philip, Japheth and Terry.

After her husband’s death in 1964, Pearline worked hard to support her family in various capacities in the health care industry and in the public school system. She often stated, “I will support my family by working and not receive a welfare check.” An immensely proud and resilient woman, Pearline was known as a stylish first lady of the church with her dress and hats, all types of hats. She also in her later years became more “mellow” in her demeanor.  Rearing eight boys and two girls was a big challenge for a widowed, single mother. However she was up to the task and would often say, “I brought you into this world, and I will take you out!” Her children believed her then and now. In recent years she was the quintessential mother, grandmother great grandmother and great-great grandmother. She loved all her children and grandchildren very deeply and had a special and unique relationship with each of them. She would end phone calls with family member by saying “I love you.”
Pearline led by example. She firmly believed in God and taught her children and grandchildren to study and apply the Bible to their daily lived, and the importance of attending church. She often referred the Christ and the (Solid) Rock.