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Obituary

Geraldine Carter Johnson, 83, of Hammond, Louisiana, was peacefully called back

Home on April 24th, 2020. Born on November 22nd, 1936, to her devoted parents Tom
and Mary Louise Carter, Geraldine grew up in a big family surrounded by lots of
love. Her early life on her family's farm fostered a passion for gardening and her
impressive culinary skills. In addition to her own children, she was instrumental in

the lives of several of her younger siblings and many of her nieces and nephews.

In 1963, Geraldine married the love of her life, Joseph Johnson. They became part of

the Second Great Migration, making a loving home for their family in San Francisco,
California. It was there that she and Joseph raised their children, surrounded by a
community of cherished friends and extended family.

An ambitious working mother, Geraldine spent 20 years in the hospitality industry.
After Joseph's retirement in 1984, they returned to their hometown - Hammond,
Louisiana. She loved to love on people, and this compassionate trait proved quite
useful as she excelled in her new role as a Nutrition Aide for Louisiana State

University (LSU).

In 1986, Geraldine became a Deaconess at Mt. Vernon Missionary Baptist Church.

She served on numerous auxiliaries, including the Hospitality Committee and the
Pastor's Aid Committee. She found true fulfillment mentoring youth as a Sunday
School Teacher. Geraldine was a dedicated servant of the Lord, working tirelessly
with her clergy even as her health started to fail. A pillar of strength in the

community and a matriarch in her family, Geraldine was profoundly cherished by
her extended village.

Geraldine was preceded in death by her devoted husband of 24 years; daughter –
Patrica Ann Williams; parents and her siblings – Tom Carter Jr., Helen McGary,
Evelyn McCarter, Thaddeus Carter, James Jerome Carter Sr., Willie Ray Carter,
Gregory Carter, and Stephanie Jacob. Geraldine is survived by her loving children –
Janet Williams (Ted Shaffers), Joseph Williams Jr., Athene Mims (Kenneth Mims),

Valarie Kelly (Eric Kelly), Deneen Pritchett and bonus daughter - Carol McRae Jones;
sisters – Elaine Carter and Cynthia Thorn; grandchildren – Troia Parson (Harry
Parson), Edward Jefferson III, Trenique Mims, Trennille Brass (Shawn Brass),

Anjelica Kelly Watson (John Watson), and Dominique Kelly; and great-grandchildren
– Cheslie Parson, Zavier Parson, Cody Robinson, Derik Douglas, Cameron Jefferson-
Cornell, Tyiteyana Jefferson, Trevon Mims, Shawn Brass II, and Tiffany Brass.
As well as a host of beloved nieces, nephews, and other family members.

Geraldine's memory will live on through her family and friends.