Lucille Johnson, 73, of O’Fallon, IL, born on June 26, 1951, in St. Louis, Missouri, and cherished as a beacon of strength, courage, and unwavering optimism, transitioned to be with Jesus peacefully at home with her loved ones by her side on January 20, 2025, following a long and brave battle with kidney failure.
Lucille will be lovingly remembered by her devoted children, bonus children, and grandchildren; Tawanda (Patrick) Kelly of El Paso, TX; Yolanda (Hadrian) Suber of O’Fallon, IL; Lewis Ray Williams, affectionately known as “Man,” of St. Louis, MO; Ray Lewis (Tasha) Williams, affectionately known as “Moody,” of St. Louis, MO; and Shonna Harden of St. Louis, MO.
She was the proud grandmother of fourteen grandchildren: Laron (Delilah) Cole, Martin Rivers, Arsenio Randle, Casey Harden, Patrick Kelly Jr., Jordan Kelly, Joshua Kelly, Olivia Kelly, Tayona Cotton, Niyah (Angelo) Williams, Rashad Williams, Christopher Dale, Darrien Johnson, and Summer Harden; as well as six great-grandchildren: Brooklyn Cole, Phoenix Cole, Kingston Cole, Dallas Cole, Kaliyah Cotton, and Sylver Walker.
She also leaves behind her cherished aunt, Faye Williams, the last elder matriarch of their family.
Lucille was preceded in death by her beloved maternal grandmother, Elizabeth Williams; and her mother, Claudette Williams.
Among Lucille’s greatest accomplishments was raising her four children, whom she cherished as her pride and joy. She worked as a dedicated phlebotomist for many years until her disability, but even when faced with life’s challenges, Lucille’s compassion and love for others never wavered. She remained a steadfast source of support for her family and the bonus family God blessed her with, always extending a helping hand to anyone in need.
Lucille made Jesus her Lord at Gateway City Church in 1995, and her faith became the cornerstone of her life. She found joy in sharing God’s love and His Word with others, inspiring those around her. Even as her health declined and she was no longer able to attend church in person, Lucille faithfully joined services online, remaining deeply connected to her faith community.
Lucille was a gentle, soft-spoken, and kind soul with a touch of feistiness and humor that brought smiles to those who knew her. She enjoyed life’s simple pleasures, from working on word puzzles to listening to music. Her love for Snoop Dogg, who reminded her of her eldest son, was a fun and unexpected part of her personality. She adored her Amazon parrot, Oscar, often engaging in playful debates about what TV show to watch.
Lucille’s love for animals and nature was evident throughout her life. Before and after starting dialysis, she cherished spending time with her friends, whether in person or over the phone. She found solace in observing the changing seasons from her window, marveling at the vibrant colors of fall, the serene beauty of winter snow, and the renewal of life in the blooming flowers of spring.
With a large and loving family composed of both blood relatives and heart-chosen bonds, Lucille’s influence was far-reaching and profound. Her legacy of love and kindness will be cherished for years to come. While her family will miss her deeply—words cannot capture the extent of that loss—they take comfort knowing she is now living eternally with her precious Savior, Jesus.
Condolences may be extended to the family online at www.schildknechtfh.com.
A memorial service will take place on January 25th, 2025, at 1 p.m., at Gateway City Church; 9330 Stansberry Ave., St. Louis, MO 63134.
Arrangements entrusted to Schildknecht Funeral Home and Cremation Services
