Johnnie N May's Obituary
Johnnie Nettles May began her journey in Beatrice, Alabama, on January 29, 1927, born to John and Mary (McCants) Nettles. In her youth, she embraced her faith, accepting Christ and being baptized at Shiloh Baptist Church. Johnnie May received her education at Monroe County Training School in Beatrice. In 1951, Johnnie embarked on a new chapter of her life, relocating from Mobile, Alabama, to Oakland, California, with her family. No matter the challenges she faced, she maintained her faith.
Johnnie was a member of the Order of Eastern Star, Golden Poppy Grand Chapter, Unity Chapter #15 since 1973. She enjoyed supporting her chapter in their service to others and the community. She was a faithful member for 50 years. She was a past Matron and held various other offices. Johnnie was also Grand Electa and member of the Educational Scholarship Committee of Golden Poppy Grand Chapter. She especially enjoyed attending the Grand Sessions with her Eastern Star Sisters. Johnnie’s devotion to spirituality remained steadfast throughout her life, as she later joined the First Church of Religious Science in 1979, finding community at the East Bay Church of Religious Science. Johnnie began working for American Bakeries in 1967 and retired in 1986 as a Supervisor.
In 1969, Johnnie met her life companion, Charlie Brown, where they shared many loved and joyful years together until his passing. Johnnie loved her family and friends. Her welcoming spirit brought joy to many, and she shared her wisdom. She was a pillar of strength and compassion, always ready to lend a listening ear or offer a helping hand. Johnnie regularly attended the Burgess, Locke, McCants Family Reunions. She enjoyed her annual visits to the Kentucky Derby, not just for the horses but the friendships she made over the years.
Johnnie’s nick name growing up was “Matt”, later she became known as “Nina” pronounced Ny-na. She wanted a sophisticated name other than grandma. Many called her Nina over the years; grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and friends she adopted along the way. Johnnie, after a long illness, entered eternal life on May 6, 2024. She was a fighter and overcame many battles to live to a wonderfully blessed age of 97.
Preceding her in her passing, her beloved children; Willie Edward May, Evelyn May Snodgrass and Gaytrice May; and brother, Earl Nettles. She leaves behind her son, Eddie Bobby Nettles (Debra) of Beatrice, Alabama; 10 grandchildren (Evelyn Nettles-Hines, Mann, Edwin, Zellworth, Angela, and Dominique Nettles; Gary (Nakesha), Jontue, Krystal, and Britton (Jana) Ferguson, 31 great grandchildren and 22 greats. Johnnie was loved by many, and she leaves them with cherished memories including but not limited to Cousin Cynthia Fountain; Nieces, Vivian Wesley (Bobby) and Verita Brown; Adoptive daughters, Gwen Shelton, Carol Dorham, Sandy Anderson and Diana Russ.
Johnnie Nettles May touched the lives of countless individuals with her kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith. She will be dearly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
May she find eternal peace in the loving embrace of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
In order to honor Johnnie May's wishes, the family requests no flowers to be sent. Options to honor Johnnie May can done in the form of donations to either the American Cancer Society or SOS Meals on Wheels.
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