Linda Lou Johnson

Linda Lou Cox Johnson entered this world on December 11, 1950, a shining light born to the late Walter Green and Charline Cox in the quaint town of Sardis, MS. Her childhood unfolded amidst the warmth of community and the embrace of family, where she attended Green Hill Elementary School and North Panola High School. Linda's journey through education was marked by her courageous role as one of the pioneering black students who integrated North Panola High School, a testament to her strength and resilience even from a young age. In 1969, Linda proudly walked across the stage to receive her diploma, a milestone that marked the beginning of her journey into higher education and beyond. Her thirst for knowledge led her to Northwest Community College, where she pursued her studies with passion and dedication, ultimately earning her associate degree. Armed with her newfound knowledge and a spirit of adventure, Linda set her sights on the bustling metropolis of Chicago, Illinois, where she embarked on a career in the field of information technology. For several years, Linda lent her talents to a local hospital, where her expertise and dedication made her an invaluable asset to the institution. Yet, life's journey was not confined to a single destination for Linda. With the passage of time came new opportunities and new beginnings, leading her to the vibrant energy of the D.C. area. There, amidst the iconic landmarks and bustling streets, Linda found herself drawn to the Information Technology Department at Marriott International Headquarters in Maryland. For over 25 years, Linda's unwavering commitment and tireless work ethic were the cornerstones of her tenure at Marriott, where she played an integral role in shaping the technological landscape of the company. Her dedication to her craft and her colleagues earned her the admiration and respect of all who had the privilege of working alongside her. As the chapters of her professional life drew to a close, Linda embraced the well-deserved reward of retirement, bidding farewell to Marriott with a legacy of excellence and a lifetime of memories. Her journey from the small town of Sardis to the bustling corridors of corporate America is a testament to her resilience, her tenacity, and her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. Rooted in faith and guided by her belief in the power of community, Linda's spiritual journey was a testament to her unwavering devotion to God and her fellow man. Baptized at Mount Zion Missionary Baptist Church in Sardis, Linda's faith journey continued to flourish as she became an integral part of the congregations at Petworth United Methodist Church and Alfred Street Baptist Church, where her warm presence and compassionate spirit left an indelible mark on the hearts of all who knew her. Today, as we honor Linda's memory and celebrate the life she lived, let us reflect on the lessons she imparted and the legacy she leaves behind. From the halls of North Panola High School to the corridors of Marriott International, Linda's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance, the importance of education, and the enduring spirit of hope that resides within us all. Above all, Linda's devotion to her son, Edwin, was unparalleled. She poured her heart into raising him, instilling in him the values of love, compassion, and family. Her faith in God was the cornerstone of her life, guiding her every action and decision. Her commitment to staying abreast of each family member's life journey was nothing short of remarkable. Linda made it her personal mission to know every nephew and niece by name, a testament to her unwavering dedication to fostering close, personal relationships within the family. She didn't just passively observe their lives; she actively engaged, reaching out with heartfelt phone calls on birthdays and showering them with thoughtful gifts on special occasions. Linda leaves to cherish wonderful memories of her life: her son, Edwin L. Cox of Silver Springs, MD; her siblings: Michael Bell (Sheryl) of Hillside, IL, Iris Renee Taylor (Mack, preceded in death) of Como, MS, David L. Cox (Velma) of Como, MS, Theresa Lee (James) of Sardis, MS, Sandra McCarty (Tyrus) of Oxford, MS, Walker Greene, Jr. (Ida), Linda Christian (Robert) and Brenda Kay Martin all of Chicago, IL. Linda was preceded in death by her sisters Carol Bell Boykins, Barbara Elery and Deborah Greene, and her brother and his wife, Anthony (Pam); a special aunt, Hazel Fair of Silver Springs, MD, four Uncles, Chester Cox and Keith Cox of Sardis, MS, and James Cox (Diane) of Fort Washington, DC, Ernest Anderson of Memphis, TN; a favorite cousin, Monica Anderson of Memphis, TN, special friends, Tanya, Denise, Gloria and Angela; goddaughter Augusta; nieces, nephews, cousins, other relatives and friends. While we mourn her passing, we also celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the countless lives she touched along the way. In the words of Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 , "1 For everything there is a season, and a time for every a purpose under heaven: 2 a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; 3 a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; 5 a time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; 6 a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away; 7 a time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; 8 a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace." It is with sadness that we share the news of Linda Lou Cox Johnson's passing on May 9, 2024. A memorial ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, May 21, 2024, at Alfred Street Baptist Church, 301 South Alfred Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Rather than sending flowers, the family asks for voluntary donations in memory of Linda to Alfred Street Baptist Church's Homeless Outreach program, which holds special meaning for Ed. All contributions will directly support their mission to provide food and care for those affected by homelessness. Please find the donation information below: Step 1: Click on https://onrealm.org/alfredstreet/-/form/give/now Step 2: Enter $ Amount Step 3: Select Regular Offering from drop-down menu Step 4: In the Memo Section type (Homeless Outreach) in honor of Ms. Linda Johnson

Linda Lou Johnson

December 11, 1950 - May 9, 2024