Patricia Annette Johnson

A Profile of Life

Today we pay tribute to a well-lived life, marked by love, selflessness, and a profound dedication to her faith. Patricia Annette Johnson, a cherished individual known for her kindness, generosity, and robust faith, was born on May 18, 1944, in Columbus, Georgia to the parents of the late Willie Clifford Starke and Sarah Mildred Walton Starke Kelly. Patricia passed away peacefully surrounded by the people that love her the most on March 11, 2025, in Indianapolis, Indiana. Other than her parents, Patricia was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Harry Johnson, grandmother Mary Lee Watt and her sister Linda D. Kelly.

Patricia grew up in Columbus, GA, where she attended William H. Spencer High School, graduating in 1962. Spreading her wings further, she attended Cortez W. Peters Business School in Washington, D.C., where she furthered her skills and prepared for a career at Lucent Technologies where she dedicated many years before her well-deserved retirement. Patricia was not only esteemed for her work ethic but also cherished for her camaraderie and kindness.

Those who knew Patricia, affectionately known as “Pat” to her friends were blessed to experience her gentle demeanor. Whether it was a helping hand or an attentive ear, she offered pieces of her heart in every interaction. Her beautiful smile reflected her beautiful soul. Her positive outlook and the genuine care she showed to everyone she met were the hallmarks of her character.

Patricia’s devotion to her faith was evident in her active participation in her church. Before she fell ill, she was an active dedicated member at Bethel A.M.E Church. Patricia served on the Parker Usher Board, lifted her voice in the church choir, and her dedication extended to the church finance committee, where she was a trusted steward of resources. In her community, she was a cherished volunteer, always ready to lend a helping hand, touching lives and making a difference. Her life was a living example of the biblical verse, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” Patricia’s love for the Lord was the cornerstone of her existence. This love was mirrored in the way she cared for her family.

Patricia was a beacon of love for her family, she was a devoted caregiver to her mother, grandmother, and aunt, embodying the true essence of selflessness. Her nurturing spirit was comforting and a blessing to those who had the privilege of being in her care.

Her legacy lives on through her sons Harry B. Johnson, Sr. and Jeremiah J. Johnson. Her daughter and devoted caregiver Travae D. Johnson, who cared for her with unwavering dedication, grandson Harry B. Johnson, Jr., and great-grandsons Isaiah and Adam Johnson.

She will be remembered as the matriarch who guided them with wisdom and unwavering support.

Patricia’s life was further enriched by the dedicated support of her daytime caregiver, Tatiana Monga, who assisted Travae while she worked, ensuring Patricia received the best care. Tatiana was a valued extension of her family, providing compassionate support while her daughter was at work. Together, they ensured Patricia’s later years were filled with the same love and care she had always given to others.

Patricia leaves to cherish her memories, three sisters Pinkie M. Echols (Columbus, GA), Caroline Rattigan (Ozzie), (Detroit, MI), Sheila G. Carter (Larry), (Detroit, MI), and one brother Wille C. Starke, Jr., (Detroit, MI), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and her church family.

As we celebrate the life of Patricia Annette Johnson, let us carry forward the legacy of her love and faith. Let us be inspired by her selflessness and her unwavering commitment to family and community. Patricia’s journey on earth may have concluded, but the impact of her life’s work will continue to resonate for generations to come.

In her memory, let us strive to embody the qualities that made her so remarkable:

a loving nature, a selfless heart, and an unshakeable faith. Patricia’s story is not one that ends, but a continuous inspiration that challenges us to live with purpose, to cherish each moment, and to spread love unconditionally, just as she did.

Farewell, Patricia, until we meet again.

Humbly Submitted………………………………………………………The Family