Mary. “Mae” Johnson, 96, of Alton IL, passed away on Tuesday, August 26, 2024 at St Joseph's Hospital. She was born May, 20 1928, the son of Bubba Lee Johnson and Gertchu Lee Johnson.

Survivors include , children ;Tasha Johnson ,Tanya Johnson , son and daughter-in-law, Nathan and Shelby Johnson of St. Louis, MO; grandchildren, Danielle Johnson, Alicia Johnson,Easton Johnson, Jeremiah Johnson, Roslyn Johnson and a grandson due in December; two sisters, Deitra (Jay) Johnson of Cambridge, IL and Debra Rose George of St Louis MO; one aunt; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is preceded in death by her parents and son, Marvin Johnson.

Born and raised in Alton IL , Mae was a proud graduate of Alton High School. She pursued her passion for history at Illinois State University where sh earned a bachelor's degree. She was particularly fascinated by World War II and U.S. history And served in the navy. Mae grew up in the Baptist faith.

Mae dedicated over three decades to being a nurse at St Joseph's hospital , and working diligently as an Economic Development Professional for the State of Illinois and the City of Alton.

She was an enthusiastic Chicago Cubs fan and her loyalty to his ISU alma mater's sports teams was equally strong. She enjoyed time with her friends, finding leisurely fun on the greens. Always a storyteller, Mae loved to share tales of her backpacking journey across Europe after college. She “enjoyed” trips to Florida during the winter months for the past ten years. A woman of practical skills and habits, Mae took pride in keeping her car in excellent condition. She also had a taste for the finer things, enjoying a good vodka martini now and then. Above all, Mae adored her role as a grandma. She cherished the time spent with her grandchildren, imparting wisdom, sharing laughs, and creating memories that will be treasured forever.