That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life.  - John 3:15

Celebrating the Life of Johnnie Lewis Stripling

On a crisp winter morning in January, Johnnie Lewis Stripling was born to Clarence and Emma Jackson. She was the youngest daughter of 10 siblings.

Johnnie was educated in the Mineola County School System. She graduated from McFarland High School, and received a scholarship to attend Texas College. There, she met and married Paul L. Lewis, and to this union three children were born: Toni Lewis Fisher, Renae Lewis Perez, and Paul Lawrence Lewis II.

As the first of her siblings to graduate from college, Johnnie continued her Postgraduate education and earned her master's degree from Prairie View A & M.

Johnnie was an educator for many years, beginning her career at T. J. Austin Elementary. During integration, she was moved to Clarkston Elementary, and retired from Peete Elementary as a devoted second grade teacher. Following retirement, she embraced her passion for traveling with her husband Dr. Aaron J. Stripling. One of the most memorable highlights was walking across the Great Wall of China. Together, they visited every continent.

Johnnie also had a great passion for gardening, decorating for Christmas and was an avid lover of her dogs, who enjoyed running errands with her. She was an active and faithful member of Liberty Baptist Church.

Johnnie leaves behind to celebrate her homegoing her three children; one sibling, Harold Jackson; grandchildren, Lawrence Joshua Lewis (Talanisha), Morgan Darby, Mylene Lewis George, Gabrielle Perez, Allan Dela Cruz (Roann), Arvin Dela Cruz (Tiffanee); great grandchildren, Myca George, Dallas Darby,  Lawrence Joshua Lewis, Denver Carter, Jayden Perez, Bryson Dela Cruz, Theon Dela Cruz, Dakota Carter, Paisley Lewis, Torin Dela Cruz; and a host of relatives and friends who loved and will miss her dearly.

Through her confession in the Lord Jesus Christ (His death, burial, and resurrection) we know that Johnnie is no longer with her earthly body; but is now ever present with the Lord.