Earl Johnson

Earl Lean “Madea” Johnson was born to Ivory Perry and Pearl Perry (née Mitchell) on September 7, 1931.  She was a loving and caring mother, grandmother, aunt, cousin and beloved friend to many.  On October 27, 2021, she left this world and went home to the Lord at the age of 90.

She is survived by her children Edward (Sharon) Bryant of East St. Louis, IL, Janet Mack of Bloomington, IL, Djuanna (Willie) Chambers of Cahokia Heights, IL, Sharon Hall of Cahokia Heights, IL, Pearl Johnson, Frederick D. Johnson Jr., and Mildred “Mil” Johnson of Bloomington, IL along with numerous grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren.

Earl Lean is preceded in death by her parents Ivory and Pearl Perry Sr., husband Frederick D. Johnson Sr., her brother Ivory Perry Jr., her sister Kathen Wright, and her sons Robert E. Bryant and Ivory J. Bryant Sr.

Her smile, quick wit, and unwavering faith in God will definitely be missed.  Earl Lean was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ.  She introduced her children and grandchildren to the value and necessity of having a spiritual relationship with our Savior.  She was a member of Loving Missionary Baptist Church in Bloomington, IL where she was member of the Mother Board.  She also emphasized hard work, dedication, and the need for a good education to produce opportunities for success in life.  She led by example and strived to live as a “true believer” in everything she did.

She loved her children and grandchildren immensely, but was not hesitant to deliver swift discipline when necessary.  This combination of unwavering love and discipline helped to develop a legacy which extends beyond her natural descendants.  Over the years she “adopted” many other children and all that knew her are better off because of their experiences of knowing her.  Her love of family and genuine compassion for others will ensure that her legacy will be one of positivity and gratefulness.

Words to live by:  “Put your hand in God’s hand.”

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