The publication is reproduced in full below:
SHIRLEY ANN JOHNSON
______
HON. MARC A. VEASEY
of texas
in the house of representatives
Monday, September 20, 2021
Mr. VEASEY. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor Shirley Ann Johnson, a caring wife, mother, grandmother, greatgrandmother, godmother, sister, aunt, and friend.
Shirley graduated from Booker T. High School in Norfolk, VA, and went on to marry the love of her life, Rolland L. Johnson, Sr. They had two children, Rolland L. Johnson, Jr., and Nicole D. Collier who affectionately called her Momma. They moved to Northern Virginia where they settled their family in Dale City.
Shirley's strong faith led them to Little Union Baptist Church in Dumfries, VA. There, she was an integral part of the Children's Ministry and quickly became a beloved favorite of the local children. Shirley loved to play softball and volleyball and encouraged her children to enjoy sports as well.
Shirley and Rolland Sr.'s children supplied them with 9 grandchildren who all referred to Shirley as Nana. They became the object of her affection and often the grandchildren would be found at Nana's while she whipped up her famous oatmeal cookies or delicious macaroni and cheese. Always generous with her time, Shirley could be seen shuffling the grandchildren from place to place and she was always present for pivotal moments in their life. The close bond that they shared did not falter when they teased that Nana had ``no filter'' later in life, when she shared her opinion about their choice of clothes or hair style.
Shirley's faith was only strengthened when she was diagnosed with cancer in 2011, with a 25 percent chance to live. Arising from the debilitating treatment, she even surprised medical professionals with her amazing courage, faith, and strength.
However, as the years went by, the remnants of chemotherapy and twice a day radiation took a toll on her body. Gradually losing strength but always maintaining her sharp mind, her beloved husband took on the task of giving her the best love and attentive care only he could provide. Cameron, her granddaughter spent countless days and hours assisting Nana towards the end of her life and was always able to bring a smile to her face or make her laugh even when the days were long and hard.
On August 29, 2021, phrases like ``please don't go Momma,'' or
``today was not your day, Nana'' were spoken but God had a different plan and called her home to Glory. She is now reunited with her parents Helen and Thomas Joyner, her sisters Gladys, Mary, and Willie Mae, her brothers Walter, Lewis and Donald and other loving family members.
Shirley leaves behind a legacy of love and precious memories to be cherished by her relatives, friends, and community. Shirley's love and unwavering commitment to faith and family will be deeply missed by our Fort Worth community.
____________________
SOURCE: Congressional Record Vol. 167, No. 162
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