Kleo D Johnson

ADRIAN—Kleo Donna Johnson, age 85, of Adrian, MI made her transition on Tuesday, December 4, 2012, in her home, under the care of Hospice of Lenawee. She was born on April 17th, 1927, in Adrian, MI to Blanche Agnes (Thompson) and Donald DeWitt Carter, both of whom preceded her in death. Siblings, Kenneth, Roland, Harriet and Marland and one great granddaughter, Brittany, also preceded Kleo in death. Kleo attended Adrian Public Schools, received her BS from Adrian College and her MA from Eastern Michigan University. Kleo began her employment as a teacher at the Adrian Training School for girls and later became the first African American teacher hired into the Adrian Public School system. Kleo Johnson has had a remarkable life journey and many firsts as an educator and community activist. She was an untiring pioneer as she led through voice and action the charge for necessary changes within the community always in a Christian manner. Kleo not only was a gifted orator as a requested speaker throughout the State but she wrote numerous articles about her faith and civil rights. Kleo was also known for her vocal accomplishments. Kleo loved to sing and was known for her soprano voice within the community. Kleo believed in the capacity for humanity to change and committed herself to action to be a part of that change through service. She volunteered with the Parent Aide Program, Bixby Hospital, and Meals on Wheels; received awards from Adrian College Athletic Council, Adrian College Athletic Hall of Fame 1992, Missionary’s Hall of Fame 2004, and was a recipient of the 1993 Annual Martin Luther King Jr. Community Award; she was also active in various organizations, she served as coordinator of Ecumenical Development for Church Women United of Lenawee County, developed the adjusted studies programs in both Alexander and Michener Schools, Michigan State President for the Women’s Christian Temperance Union, Michigan AME 4th District Women’s Missionary Society Torch Lighter, president of Lenawee County Retired School Personnel (1993-94), and a devoted member of Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church where she served as a Steward, Stewardess, experienced Bible Study scholar, Adult Choir member, consecrated Deaconess in the Michigan Annual Conference, former member and former President of the Ethel Griffith Missionary Society; and a faithful enthusiastic participant, teacher and Assistant Superintendent and Superintendent of the Sunday School, Secretary of Ann Arbor Area Missionary Society and Vacation Bible School. Kleo was married to Buford Johnson who preceded her in death in 2008. To the union of Kleo and Buford surviving are their children; Pamela Agnes Johnson, grandchildren Sean Wesolowski (spouse Nicole) and Erica Wesolowski-Wright (spouse Phillip), great-grandchildren Sofia and Phillip Jr.; Justine Johnson-Stewart (spouse Ronald), grandchildren Dreycem, great grandchildren Breanna, Aliyah and Anthony Jr.; Carter David Johnson (spouse Bonita), grandchildren April, Azure, Damon and Anthony, great grandchildren Ronald, DonaVon, Cyan, Sienna, Lucas, Cerise, Dreighton; Lynne Ann Johnson-Lopez (spouse Joe), grandchildren Jake, Matt, Fina; Leslie Allison Johnson-Smith (spouse Larry), grandchildren Lisa, Kelly, Traci, Matt, great grandchildren Gregory Jr., Brandon, Josh, Chelsea, Lauren, Skyler, Jacob, Devin, Emma, Connor, Cole, Luke, great great grandchildren Gregory III, McKenzie, Braden, and Peyton. Kleo is also survived by one sister, Florence Carter and numerous family and friends. Funeral services for Kleo will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 8, 2012 at the Wagley Funeral Home with Rev. Howard Tranumn officiating. The family will receive family and friends at the funeral home from 4:30 to 8:00 p.m on Friday. A mother’s love can never by replaced nor forgotten. Memorial contributions may be made to Bethel AME Church and the Lenawee County Hospice. On line condolences are welcomed at www.WagleyFuneralHome.com

Kleo D Johnson

April 17, 1927 - December 4, 2012