HIlda Marie Johnson

Herrin- Hilda M. Johnson, 93, of Herrin, passed away at 8:35 AM, Friday, October 28, 2011 at her home. Hilda was born on May 22, 1918 in DuQuoin to Herman John and Mary Anna (Woll) Hirsch. She married Elmer E. Johnson on May 20, 1930 in DuQuoin. He preceded her in death on June 15, 1996. She was employed as a seamstress at Smoler Brothers in Herrin for many years until her retirement. She previously worked as a seamstress at a garment factory in Pinckneyville, but became known as The Flower Lady at Neslers Polar Whip in Energy for several years following her retirement. Later, she helped each week in the Community Food Pantry at Freeman Chapel. Throughout her life Hilda faithfully served her Lord. She and Elmer served many years in Freeman Chapel Church in Freeman Spur, where he was a deacon and she was a Sunday school teacher and youth leader. Elmer later went on to pastor Creal Springs Northern Baptist Church for twenty-five years and she took up her ministry there by his side. He played the guitar as they sang together and blessed many with their songs. She enjoyed quilting and gave away many to her family and friends. This past May, several family and friends gathered with her to celebrate her 93rd birthday. She was well loved by family and friends and will be greatly missed. Survivors include- Son- Edward Wayne Johnson of Freeman Spur Son- Kenneth Dean Johnson and wife Gaila of Herrin Seven Grandchildren: Jean Ann Herring & husband Richard of Tuscola Jeff Johnson and wife Jennifer of Herrin Justin Johnson and wife Amy of Herrin Josh Johnson and wife Wendi of Carterville Daniel Johnson and wife Kathy of Johnston City Jarrett Johnson and wife Melissa of New Burnside Matthew Johnson and wife Angie of Creal Springs Nineteen Great Grandchildren Kailey and Brittany Herring of Tuscola Ashley, Reagan, Lauren and Sarah Johnson of Herrin Joelle, Jalenn and Jason Johnson of Herrin Noah, Luke and Andrew Johnson of Carterville Alexander, Benjamin and Abigail Johnson of Johnston City Jayden Johnson of New Burnside Cody, Caleb and Callie Johnson of Creal Springs Sister- Mary Ann Ritter of DuQuoin Several nieces, nephews and cousins She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, daughter in law- Nancy Johnson, six brothers- William, George, Herman, Louis, Jackob and Adolph Hirsch and five sisters- Lena Arendell, Bertha Norris, Elizabeth Reiman, Susan Crain and Helen Higgerson. The funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM, Monday, October 31, 2011 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Her son, Rev. Kenneth Johnson, along with Rev. Todd Hawk will officiate. Burial will follow at Herrin City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 5-8:00 PM, Sunday, October 30, 2011 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin. Memorial donations are suggested to the American Cancer Society and will be accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home/ 201 S. 13th St/ Herrin, IL 62948.