Obituary of Ora Marie Johnson

Ora Marie Stults was born on September 21, 1927, in Lynn, Alabama. She was a daughter born to the union of Daniel Stults and Isabell (Ward) Stults.  She was gainfully employed for nearly twenty years as a sewing machine operator with General Motors Corporation.  On September 7, 1946, Ora married the love of her life, Delbert Johnson and the couple was blessed with the birth of five children.

Ora grew up with a fondness for the treasures one could uncover at flea markets and garage sales, a passion she pursued with enthusiasm throughout her life. For Ora, the thrill was not just in the finding of a great deal but in the stories and history every item carried with it.

When her mobility became limited, Ora didn’t let that dampen her spirits. She began making delicious fried apple pies, a treat that brought her community to her front door. Her pies became famous in her hometown, combining her love for cooking with her innate hospitality.  People from all walks of life stopped by to pick up a pie, share a story, and on occasion, enjoy Ora’s delightful company.

The Covid pandemic in 2020 meant an end to her impromptu pie gatherings, but not to the bonds she had formed with those around her, who continued to support her in any way they could.

A self-proclaimed master gardener, Ora also possessed a profound love for flowers, a passion that began in her early years. Her garden was a place of refuge and joy, filled with a variety of blooms that reflected her love and care.

Ora Marie Johnson, age 96, formerly of Newport, Michigan, passed away at her daughter’s home in Woodstock, Alabama, on Saturday, May 4, 2024.  Her passing was preceded by her husband of fifty-one years: Delbert; a daughter: Sheila Bell; and a son: Jeffery Johnson.

To cherish her memory, she leaves three children: Roger (Rochelle) Johnson, Melanie (Dennis) Allen, and Donna Bercheni; nine grandchildren; fifteen great grandchildren; and six great-great grandchildren.

Friends may gather on Monday; May 13, 2024, from 1:00pm until 2:00pm at Merkle Funeral Service, North Monroe; 2442 North Monroe Street, Monroe, Michigan 48162 (734) 384-5185.  A Celebration of Her Life will take place at 2:00pm, led by Pastor B.J. McDaniel of One-Way Christian Fellowship.  Procession to Michigan Memorial Pak Cemetery, Flat Rock will immediately follow for interment.

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