Deacon Chester Ray Johnson

On December 24, 1952, a beautiful baby boy named Chester Ray Johnson was born to Lee Thelma Johnson (McCornell) and Fred Winsley who both preceded him in death and was raised by his stepfather George McCornell who also preceded him in death. He was born in Rankin County. He attended Carter High and Brandon High School. He was joined in holy matrimony to JoAnn Johnson, and together they shared 22 beautiful years of marriage. Chester has four loving children and two precious grandchildren. Chester was also a devoted and hardworking man who dedicated 46 plus years of service to Merit Health River Oaks Hospital in Flowood, Mississippi, where he worked in the maintenance department. His work was valued, and he was loved and respected by many of his co-workers. Through his commitment, dependability, and kind spirit, he made a lasting impact on those he worked alongside. Chester was a blessing to all who knew him. He lived a life filled with love, faith, strength, and compassion. His presence brought warmth, joy, and comfort to family and friends. Whether through a kind word, a loving smile, or a helping hand, Chester touched the lives of many in a special and unforgettable way. A man of faith and service, Chester served faithfully as a Senior Deacon, Sunday school teacher, parking lot attendant and cemetery ground keeper at Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church in Brandon, Mississippi. His dedication to the Lord, his church family, and his community was a true reflection of his heart. He believed in God's grace, trusted in His promises, and walked with a spirit of love, humility, and devotion. Family meant everything to Chester. He cherished every moment spent with loved ones and created memories that will forever remain in our hearts. Though his earthly journey has come to an end, his love, wisdom, and spirit will continue to live through each life he touched. Chester leaves to cherish his loving wife JoAnn Johnson of Brandon, MS, his four children Stephanie (Theron) Morris of Brandon, MS, Eyata Jones of Forney, TX, Ashley Beard of Atlanta, GA and Joshua Taylor of Brandon, MS; his two grandchildren: Josiah Morris and Gia Harris and step-mother Rosemary Winsley of Chicago, IL. He is survived by his siblings: Rosie (Larry) Smith of Hattiesburg, MS; Alvergia Hines of Brandon, MS; Annie (Eddie Kelly of Brandon, MS; Percy (Donna) McCornell of Hampton, GA; Patricia (Willie) Sims of Hattiesburg, MS; Ronnie McCornell of Brandon, MS and Fred Winsley Jr. of Chicago, IL and a host of nieces and nephews. As we honor Chester's life today, we are reminded that death is not the end for those who believe. We take comfort in the promise of eternal life and the assurance that one day we will meet again.

Deacon Chester Ray Johnson

December 24, 1952 - July 7, 2026