Doris Jean Johnson

Obituary for Doris Jean Johnson
June 20, 1937 - May 24, 2025

Doris Jean Leary Johnson was born on June 20, 1937, in Carthage, Texas, to Fletcher Leary and Willie Jane Leary. The firstborn of twelve children, five daughters and seven sons, Doris naturally stepped into the role of nurturer and leader among her siblings. Her upbringing was rooted in strong Christian faith and family values, cultivated by her parents and her grandparents, James and Gertrude Hudson.

She attended Carthage Colored Elementary School and later Turner High School, where she was known for her vibrant spirit and love of the performing arts. As a proud majorette and member of the marching band, Doris graduated in 1954 with a zest for life that would define her journey.

After high school, she moved to Maywood, Illinois, where she lived with her beloved aunt, Audie Conner-a woman she admired deeply. In 1966, Doris relocated to Los Angeles, California, seeking a fresh start for herself and her three children-Crystal, Joseph, and Kimberly-while reconnecting with her family who had settled in Banning, California.

In 1967, Doris met James Johnson. Their love blossomed, and after two years of courtship, they were united in marriage on December 20, 1969. Doris and James were true soulmates-partners in life, love, and purpose. Together, they built a joyful and welcoming home filled with family road trips, backyard barbecues, laughter, and a sense of community. Family was their foundation, and their bond was an example to all who knew them.

When their daughter Kimberly passed away tragically, Doris and James embraced the role of parents once more and lovingly raised their grandson, Trishtin, as their own son. They later moved to Redlands, California in 1997, to ensure he would grow up in a close-knit community surrounded by cousins, aunts, and uncles. There, Doris enjoyed a peaceful and fulfilling life grounded in love, faith, and family.

On Saturday, May 24, 2025, Doris Jean Johnson peacefully went home to be with the Lord.

She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted husband, James Johnson; her children, Crystal Pitre and Joseph Pitre; her grandchildren, Trishtin Hall, Ebony Pitre, Amber Pitre, Amitra Pitre, and Joseph Pitre Jr.; and her siblings, Wendell Leary, Neil Leary, Shirley Leary, David Leary, Paul Leary, Jacqueline Leary, Odie Leary, and Gordon Leary. She is also survived by great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and many dear friends.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, June 2, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Wiefels & Son's Memorial Chapel, 50 E Nicolet Street, Banning, CA 92220. The repast will immediately follow at the Leary residence, located at 1778 N Forest Oaks Drive, Beaumont, CA 92223.

Doris Jean Johnson will be remembered for her unwavering strength, deep compassion, and boundless love for her family. Her legacy is one of faith, resilience, and grace, forever etched in the hearts of those she touched.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." - Matthew 25:23

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