In Loving Memory of Mary Louise “Sissy” Johnson
Mary Louise Johnson, lovingly known as “Sissy,” age 86, passed away peacefully on Sunday, June 8, 2025, at Odin Health Care in Odin, Illinois. Born on April 2, 1939, in Murphysboro, Illinois, Mary was the cherished daughter of the late Arthur Douglass and Melba Catherine (Roberts) Glenn.
A proud graduate of Carbondale Community High School, Class of 1956, Mary lived a life defined by compassion, creativity, and devotion to her family and community. She married Ray Johnson on November 16, 1958, and although the marriage later ended in divorce, they shared the joy of raising two sons together.
Mary’s career path reflected her deep care for others—serving as a waitress, a 911 dispatcher, a homemaker, and a talented cook. But it was in the warmth of her home and in the joy of creating that she truly thrived. A master of the needle and thread, Mary loved sewing, cross-stitching, and all things crafty. She was a member of Home Extension and a devoted 4-H leader who generously shared her talents by teaching cake and candy making classes. Many in the family learned to sew under her gentle guidance.
Mary’s love for reading was as diverse as her interests—she devoured mysteries, adventure novels, historical reads, and had a special fondness for cookbooks. But nothing brought her greater joy than visits from her children and grandchildren. She proudly spoke of her nine grandchildren and countless great-grandchildren, often sharing stories and accomplishments, especially of one grandson whose service at the Pentagon filled her heart with pride. She never missed a chance to talk about him, his military career, and always had a picture and updates close at hand.
Mary had a special bond with her brother, William Arthur “Bill” Glenn of Texico, Illinois, who was born on her ninth birthday—a fact she playfully reminded him of often, especially since it meant she didn’t get her fried chicken that year. In their later years, they lived together, cared for one another, and shared in their love of crafts. When asked who his favorite sibling was, Bill never hesitated: “Siss.”
Mary is survived by her beloved sons, Michael Allen Johnson of Hicksville, Ohio, and Steven Ray (Shelli) Johnson of Texico, Illinois; her loving siblings, Carole Ann Carlock of Murphysboro, IL, Brenda Kay (Doug) Turner of Carrollton, GA, and her brother and best friend Bill Glenn; sister- in- law Jeanette Glenn of Carbondale, Illinois; nine grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and extended family who adored her.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her baby sister Wilma; siblings Carl Eugene and Barbara Sue; her former husband, Ray Allen Johnson; and her daughter-in-law, Julie Johnson and brother-in-law Jack Carlock; nephew Jackie Dean Carlock.
Mary’s life was a beautiful tapestry of love, laughter, and legacy. She touched many hearts, taught many hands, and left this world a better place because of her presence.
Graveside services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Dillinger Cemetery in Carbondale, Illinois.
Memorial donations may be made to: Way of the Cross Ranch Ministries 15882 East Know Road Mt. Vernon, Illinois 62864
Walker Funeral Home & Crematory of Southern Illinois is entrusted with arrangements.
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