Loretta P. Johnson

LORETTA PEGGY JOHNSON was one of three children born to the union of William Austin Jr. and Mary E. Austin. She was born on January 21, 1940, in Baltimore, and peacefully entered her heavenly home on May 8, 2026. Loretta attended Carver High School, graduating in 1958. It was there that she met the love of her life, Henry C. Johnson III. The two were united in marriage on June 28, 1958, and together built a life centered on faith, love, family, and service. Her beloved husband preceded her in death. rom this union, five children were born: Tina Miller, Sharon Garnett, Henry Johnson IV, Rhonda Johnson, and Ronald Johnson. Loretta’s heart’s desire was to be the best mother she could be, and she fulfilled that calling with extraordinary love and devotion. She understood the unique needs of each of her children and gave tirelessly of herself to nurture, encourage, and support them. Her love was expressed through family gatherings, cookouts, her famous macaroni and cheese, and the many special meals she lovingly prepared for her family. Precious memories were created during large family beach trips, when cars would line up for the journey, filled with laughter and excitement. Holidays were always a cherished occasion in her home warm, joyful celebrations where everyone was welcomed with love, food, and open arms. One of Loretta’s treasured sayings was that she did not want to use her hands to discipline her children, but rather as “a healing touch.” That spirit of compassion and gentleness guided her life. In 1965, Loretta began her career with the United States Postal Service, where she faithfully served as a clerk until her retirement. During her years there, she inspired coworkers to support families in need during the holidays and formed many lifelong friendships. Her workplace became known for charitable giving, compassion, and community activism. Pastor Loretta was the visionary and pastor of Survivors of Grace Cancer Support and Healing Ministry. Her mission was to continue the ministry of Jesus Christ and to be used by God “to set the captives free,” inspired by Isaiah 61:1-3. God opened doors for her to minister in healing while a member at Huber Memorial Church under the leadership of Pastor Smith. Later, she organized the ministry “Healing for Damaged Emotions,” where she witnessed the transforming power of the Holy Spirit bringing healing and deliverance to many lives, including her own. During this season of ministry, Loretta was diagnosed with breast cancer. Through unwavering faith, she experienced God’s healing, strength, and restoration. While on vacation in 2000, she received the vision for Survivors of Grace as a cancer support ministry. With faith and determination, the ministry officially launched on November 16, 2001. Having experienced divine healing so profoundly, Pastor Loretta became passionate about encouraging others and sharing that Jesus Christ was Lord—the center of her joy and the foundation of her life. Pastor Loretta was licensed to preach the Gospel by Orlando Wilson on October 5, 2000. She later became a member of River of Life Church under the leadership of the late Pastor T. Tyrone Greene, where she was ordained as an Elder and later ordained as Pastor of Survivors of Grace. She faithfully served as Associate Pastor, Women’s Ministry leader, and minister with Healing for Damaged Emotions. Later, she came under the spiritual covering of Apostle Mary M. Wheeler. A lifelong learner devoted to God’s work, Pastor Loretta attended several institutes of biblical education. She matriculated for three years at Baptist Convention Seminary and College. In 2002, she completed Clinical Pastoral Education training at St. Joseph Medical Center and later served as a chaplain at Good Samaritan Hospital. In December 2009, she earned a Bachelor of Biblical Studies in Counseling from Family Bible Institute and College. God continued to use her to minister healing to those hurting physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Her prayer was always to continue doing the work of the Father. Loretta also enjoyed fellowship and creativity within the church community. She participated in a traveling church play titled None but the Righteous, performing in various cities and bringing joy to many through ministry and drama. In 2017, Loretta became a member of Renewed Minds Church under the leadership of Pastor Carlton and Barbara Moore where she served as Associate Pastor. She was deeply loved by her church family and will be greatly missed. After retirement, Loretta worked for several years at Lady’s Touch Hair Salon as a receptionist and bookkeeper. She had an exceptional gift for numbers and mental math, often solving calculations in her head with ease. More importantly, she touched the lives of coworkers and clients alike through her warmth, kindness, and encouraging words. Loretta leaves to cherish her beautiful legacy: her children, Tina (Johnson) Miller, Sharon (Johnson)Garnett, Henry Johnson IV, Rhonda Johnson and Ronald Johnson; sons-in-law, Justin Miller and Jerome Garnett; and her daughter-in-law, Pearl Johnson; eight beloved grandchildren, Carroll Carter Jr., Terah Carter, Tanna Johnson, Davon Johnson, Jheni (Gibson) Kwarteng, Bria Johnson, Henry Johnson V and Nicholas Johnson; grandson-in-law, Charles Kwarteng; seven cherished great-grandchildren, Toi Lyles, Kobi Taylor, Jamar Johnson, Nylah Johnson, Latham Kwarteng, Lael Kwarteng, Saint Partlow and Zara Johnson; and a host of other family and friends who loved her.

Tributes

Loretta P. Johnson

January 21, 1940 - May 8, 2026