Ms. Martha Jane Johnson

Martha was born on March 28, 1940 to Robert and John Willie Pickens in Holmes County, Mississippi. Both parents preceded her in death. She was the eleventh of sixteen children born into the Pickens family. She spent her early childhood in Holmes County. In 1957, she moved to Chicago, Illinois. Martha began her education at Franklin Grammer School in Holmes County. At the age of sixteen she transferred to Chicago graduating from John Marshall High School. She furthered her education at Triton College where she studied Child Psychology & Development. She finished her studies at Malcolm X College where she received her degree and later completed Cosmetology School and became a licensed Hair Care Specialist and Salon owner in Bellwood Illinois. Martha accepted Jesus Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mount Sinai Missionary Baptist Church. She later joined New Galilee Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Charles Murray and Pastor Michael Ross. She devoted her services at New Galilee on the Pastor's Aide Committee and as a choir member where she served faithfully for many years. After moving to Jacksonville Florida, she Joined St. James Community Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Dr. Reverand James Townsend where she served faithfully until she made her transition into the arms of the Lord. Martha was the Director of Vancey Boys & Girls Club in Chicago Illinois where she worked tirelessly serving the community and less fortunate. She retired from the Boys & Girls Club after 40+ years of service. Martha was a creative entrepreneur ahead of her time. She was a licensed Hair Care Specialist, operated and owned a Salon, Event Planner, Interior Designer, Florist, Seamstress and Jewelry Maker. Martha had a heart of compassion and concern for people. Her spirit was always uplifted, her smile was infectious and she always had an encouraging word to share with everyone. On Friday September 1, 2023, while surrounded by her Children and loved ones, God called His faithful servant home at 3:35pm. Martha is preceded in death by seven brothers and sisters and one grandchild. Martha will be ever present and cherished by her beloved children, her legacy lives on in her four children, Joyce Ann Flowers, Reverand Marcell Leon Pickens, Sr, Sandra Mabry (Gregory) and Myrna Powell (Denise); 9 Grandchildren, Antoine Sykes, Jeff Sykes, Reverand Danny R. Flowers (Jamellia), Keisha Oliver, Marcell Leon Pickens, Jr, Ciara Harden (Joesph), Elizabeth Pickens, Bradley (Ashley) Mathis, Britney Mathis; 26 Great Grandchildren and 1 Great Great grandchild; six Brothers and Sisters, Bernice Smith, Robert Pickens, Jr. Joe Pickens, Limmie Townsend (James), Shirley Bogan, and Elaine Davis (Donnie); a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, Godchildren, church family and friends.

Ms. Martha Jane Johnson

March 28, 1940 - September 1, 2023