Thelma Johnson

Obituary of Thelma Jessup Johnson

Born on March 3, 1935, she died peacefully in her home on December 15, 2022.

Thelma began her journey on a family farm in Randleman, North Carolina, a daughter of the late Aldie G. and Evie Stalker Jessup. She attended public school until the 8th grade. Once she found herself, her love and desire to help others led her to obtain her high school GED in her early thirties, followed by her LPN and registered nursing degree from Midlands Technical College in her mid-forties. Her drive, forward-thinking and independence was incredible for the era she was born and with her upbringing. During her professional career, she was employed by Richland Memorial Hospital, Craft Farrow, Hall Institute, Bryan Psychiatric Hospital and Morris Village. Thelma was loyal, devoted and dedicated to her profession and the patients in her care throughout her career.

Her life journey continued with world travels with her special friend who “could carry his own suitcase,” sky diving, rollercoasters, fast cars (her many red sports cars!), gardening and dancing. Her active and youthful spirit was contagious and inspiring to all who knew her.

Throughout her lifetime, Thelma remained devoted to her children and the many who followed. She was a hero to her family! She had a strong work ethic and understood the importance of equality, diversity and understanding; these values were instilled in her children and grandchildren. She showed them how to live life to the fullest, give unconditionally and she guided them with a light of love.

Thelma leaves behind a wonderful family she was very proud of. She is survived by her four children: Nancy (Curt) Davis of Columbia, SC, Patricia (Fred) Hogan of Lexington, SC, Pamela (Benny) Waldron of Gilbert, SC and Brian Johnson of Cayce, SC. She is also survived by her brother, Eugene (Sherry) Jessup of Manhattan, KS. Those blessed to call her Grandma are Roger Rexroad, Esther Maldonado, Tonya Hallman, Katherine Kip, Stephanie Kleckley, and Kendra Turk. She also cherished and celebrated her 15 great-grandchildren.  

Thelma is predeceased by her husband, Philip Cecil Johnson. She is also predeceased by her parents; her brother, Glenn Jessup; and her sisters, Lois Styne and Helen Dixon. 

A very special thank you to J. G. Kaigler for his admiration, respect, appreciation, and love for our mother. He was a devoted friend, great dancing partner and an incredible traveling companion for the past ten years. He stayed true to the very end. 

Thelma and her family are eternally grateful for the kind and devoted care provided by Lynn Ward. 

A visitation will be held at the Woodridge Memorial Park and Funeral Home in Lexington, South Carolina on Wednesday, December 21, 2022, from 4pm-7pm. Thelma’s earthly journey will end with a private service on the family farm in North Carolina.

In lieu of flowers, donations in the celebration of Thelma’s life can be made to the Oliver Gospel Mission and Carolina Children’s Home.   

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Wednesday
21
December

Visitation

4:00 pm - 7:00 pm
Wednesday, December 21, 2022
Woodridge Memorial Park and Funeral Home
138 Corley Mill Road
Lexington, South Carolina, United States
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