Claretha B. Johnson, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend peacefully passed on March 30, 2026.

Claretha was the daughter of the late Maryland Leon Baker and Pecola Baker born May 19th, 1947 in Florence, South Carolina. Claretha faithfully accepted Christ as her Lord and Savior at an early age with Meadow Prong Baptist Church. She joined the New Ebenezer Baptist Church family and community where she remained a loyal servant through fellowship, worship, song and service. Claretha was a committed, determined and efficient hardworking woman with AT&T for over 20 years.

Claretha cherished and devoted herself to her family and community. She stood as the foundation more importantly, the matriarch of her family. She savored every moment of life’s journey; she was deeply rooted in the church, enjoyed gardening, loved singing and preparing the most appetizing meals. Claretha steadily supported her family by visiting often, providing a listening ear, and always showing up when it mattered most. She remained faithful, devoted, and resilient until the very end.

She was compassionate, loving, understanding, patient, joyous, and above all, she truly embodied a lively and upbeat demeanor. Claretha’s infectious smile, radiant cheer, and powerful spirit had the potential to inspire, change, and better others. She never met a stranger, as evident of the many hearts she has touched. All things considered, Claretha was truly a beautiful, loving, and pure spirit.

She was preceded her in death in her parents, Maryland Leon Baker and Pecola Baker; her son, Frank Johnson; her sister, Dr. Fostina Baker; her brother, Elliot Baker.

Claretha’s heartfelt and benevolent spirit is carried on by her daughter, Stephanie (Marshall); sons, Dwayne (Carolina) and Michael (Rashawn); host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; siblings, Barbara (Melvin) Gibbs, Maryland Leon Baker Jr., Revella Baker, Belva (Edmond) Davis, Vangie (Roy) McCray, Wandell (Henry) Burch, Alton (Veronica) Baker, Floyd (Glenda) Baker, and Sophia Baker; she lovingly leaves two aunts, Arteal Pygatt and Rose Williams, and a host of nieces, nephews, family members, and countless friends who will forever cherish her life and legacy.

Please keep the family of Claretha B. Johnson in your thoughts and prayers.