Helen L Johnson

Helen Johnson

December 13, 1948 ~ March 16, 2026 (age 77)

On March 16, 2026, God called home one of His beloved servant leaders, Helen L. Johnson.

She was born on December 13, 1948, in Bolivar, TN. Helen was the daughter of the late Robert Johnson and Mattie Griggs Johnson. She was blessed to be raised with the loving guidance of her second mother, Esther Joy Johnson.

Helen was preceded in death by her second mother, Esther Joy Johnson, her sister, Clester Joy, and her brothers, Robert Lee and Charles Joy.

Helen embraced her faith in Jesus Christ early in her life, which led her to become a member of the New Bethel M.B. Church in Bolivar, Tennessee. Other church affiliation included the St. Paul C.M.E. Church in Bolivar, TN. Helen was not only a member but also an active participant in both churches. She generously dedicated much of her time to supporting youth groups and took on leadership roles, serving as chairperson for numerous church programs. Her involvement reflected her passion for nurturing young people and contributing to church activities.

Helen’s educational journey began in the Hardeman County School System, where she attended both elementary and high school. Following her graduation, she pursued a higher education at Mississippi Valley State University in Itta Bena, MS, earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in English. Her academic journey continued at Jackson State University in Jackson, MS, where she earned both a Master’s Degree and an Education Specialist Degree in English. Additionally, Helen advanced her education in the field of leadership by completing extensive coursework in Education Administration and Supervision. Her professional career significantly enhanced the lives of many students and colleagues.

She formerly served as an assistant principal at Bolivar Central High School in Bolivar, TN, where she played a vital role in the school’s administration and student development. During her tenure at Central High School, Helen taught English, imparting knowledge and fostering a love for literature among her students. She also served as the cheerleader sponsor in support of the athletic program. Also, as an English teacher, Helen sponsored several trips to Europe for high school students to experience other countries’ culture. Prior to relocating in Hardeman County, Helen was employed by the Leflore County School System in Greenwood, MS, where she taught Middle School English. In addition, after a long school day and during the summer, she assisted college students with writing their research papers and other college assignments. Helen considered this service as her second, unpaid career.

She was truly a servant leader, who always encouraged and inspired high school and college students to excel. Helen was very committed to her professional career. She served as President of the Hardeman County Education Association and as Vice President of the West Tennessee Education Association. Throughout her tenure in the Hardeman County School System, she contributed her leadership and expertise as both chairperson and member of numerous committees, including the district’s English Committee and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Helen’s service reflected her dedication to strengthening educational excellence at every level. Helen was deeply engaged in her community and devoted countless hours to public service. She was a former member of the Bolivar Energy Authority Electric Board and the Bolivar Community Hospital Board. In addition, she contributed her time and wisdom as a member of the Hardeman County Drug Recovery Court and the Foster Review Board, offering guidance and compassion to some of the county’s most vulnerable populations.

She was a proud Charter Member and past president of the Mu Zeta Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. in Bolivar, TN. Helen played a pivotal role in establishing the chapter as the fifth to be chartered in Tennessee in 1979. Through her sorority, she actively participated in numerous community service projects and initiatives, always working to uplift, empower, and support those around her.

Helen was always that steady, positive force faithfully working in the background helping others without ever seeking recognition for herself. She did not want the spotlight to be focused on her for the service she rendered to others. However, she could not stop those who wanted to honor and recognize her contributions to education and the community. Therefore, she received numerous accolades. Some include the Hardeman County Education Association Award, the Bolivar Energy Authority Award, and Women’s Service Award from New Bethel the God’s House of Promise. She was cited as the “Zeta of the Year” by the Mu Zeta Zeta Chapter and recognized by the Hardeman County Black History Commission for untiring support. Most recently, the City of Bolivar honored her with the prestigious Hometown Hero Award. Each recognition reflected the depth of her commitment, the strength of her character, and the countless lives she touched.

Helen L. Johnson leaves to cherish her memory, a sister, Dorothy (Robert) Patton of Cordova, TN; two brothers: Jessie James Johnson (Cheryl) of Jackson, TN, and O.B. Joy of Bolivar, TN; One Special Niece/Daughter: Kamela Johnson of Cordova, TN; One Special Great Nephew: Zekari Tell of Cordova, TN; One Special Great Niece: Liberty Davis of Oakland, TN; a Special Cousin: Zachery Griggs that she referred to as “Z Man” of Bolivar, TN; One Goddaughter: Dr. Emily Rivers of Kileen, TX; and Her beloved Dog: Pepsi. Also, she leaves a multitude of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and former colleagues and students.

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