Clarice May Johnson passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026, at St. Joseph’s North Hospital in Lutz, Florida.
She was born on August 24, 1935, in Langdale, Alabama, to the late Milton “MJ” and Era Hubbard.
Clarice married the love of her life, Willie E. Johnson, Sr., on December 23, 1952, in West Point, Georgia. As a devoted Navy wife for 22 years, she relocated many times while lovingly raising three children. During this time, Clarice worked as a seamstress, was employed in a cotton mill, and later earned her Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) certification. She was an accomplished quilter and also enjoyed knitting, crocheting, and gardening.
In 1971, following Willie’s retirement from the Navy, he was called into the ministry. Clarice deeply loved her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, and cherished her role as a pastor’s wife. She faithfully served in numerous capacities, including as an Associational WMU Director, and participated in mission trips to Africa, Scotland, St. Lucia, and Mexico. She also facilitated a trip to the Holy Land.
With a true caregiver’s heart, Clarice lovingly cared for her mother, brother, and husband during their later years. Professionally, she also served as a Human Resources Director at a nursing home in Delaware. Following the passing of her husband, Clarice resided near her daughter in Tampa, Florida.
Clarice was preceded in death by her parents, Milton “MJ” and Era Hubbard; five siblings; her husband, Willie E. Johnson, Sr.; and her grandson, Christopher Johnson, Sr.
She is survived by her children: Willie Johnson, Jr. (Debbie), Joseph Johnson (Shelly), and Judy Knotts (Dennis); six grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and a host of loving nieces and nephews.
A service will be held on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at McCrery & Harra Funeral Home, 3710 Kirkwood Highway, Wilmington, Delaware 19808. Friends and family may call from 9:00 to 9:30 a.m.
Interment will follow at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 5, 2026, at Delaware Veterans Memorial Cemetery, 2465 Chesapeake City Road, Bear, Delaware 19701.
To send condolences, please visit www.mccreryandharra.com
In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.
