Rev. Mary Edith (Luckett) Johnson

Rev. Mary Edith (Luckett) Johnson was born on August 6, 1945, in Memphis, Tennessee, as the second eldest child of Willie Lee and Mary Frances Luckett, who both preceded her in death. She was also preceded in death by her brothers Sylvester Carl Luckett, Robert Edward Luckett, and Marvin Dale Luckett. Mary was raised in Drew, Mississippi, where she often described herself as a “true child of the Delta.” She was educated in the Drew Public School System, attending Drew Elementary and Drew Hunter High School. Mary later relocated to New York City, where she met her husband, best friend, and lifelong partner, Samuel Davis Johnson Sr. of Norfolk, Virginia. Together, they were blessed with three children: Samuel Davis Johnson Jr., Prince Guye Johnson, and Tehuana Marquie Johnson. Mary’s career was diverse and impactful, with roles in Nursing, Medical Administration, and as a Governess, where she positively influenced the lives of many adults and played a vital role in the upbringing of countless children. Eventually, Mary and her family relocated to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where they became members of the Bible Way Freewill Baptist Church. Under the guidance of the late Pastor James Phillips, Mary answered God's call to the ministry and enrolled at the Philadelphia College of Bible. She earned her Theological Degree and graduated in 1981. She was ordained as a Minister of the Gospel and faithfully served in various ministries for many years. Mary was also an active member of the Northeast Free Will Baptist Conference, serving as Chairperson of the Conference Planning Committee under the leadership of Bishop Robert Farrow from August 20, 1992, for over 30 years. Alongside her husband, Pastor Sam Johnson, she co-pastored at Calvary Chapel Freewill Baptist Church, where they dedicated 12 years to feeding and clothing the needy every week. After moving to Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, Mary served as an Associate Minister under the leadership of Pastor Michael Brewster. She was deeply committed to Zion Biblical Institute and dedicated herself to serving in the church’s food pantry, providing for those in need. Mary leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and service. She is survived by her faithful husband and soulmate, Pastor Samuel Johnson; her children, Samuel Davis Johnson Jr., Prince Guye Johnson, and Tehuana Marquie Johnson (Ray Johnson); three sisters, Willy Francine Brockenbrough, Edwina Luckett, and Joann Saunders (Leon Saunders); two brothers, Willie Lee Luckett Jr. (Willie Ann Luckett) and Charles Edward Luckett (Ruthie Luckett); nine grandchildren, India Griffin, Ashley Johnson, Amber Johnson, Brandon Johnson, Anthony Butler Jr., Yondel Dudley, Zion Johnson, Joshua Johnson, Daniel Johnson; three great-grandchildren, Braxden Johnson, Kori Kennedy, and Kairo Kennedy; and a host of nieces, nephews, godchildren, church family, and friends.

Homegoing Services will be held on February 15, 2025, at 10:30 AM in Mt. Zion Baptist Church, 105 Hill Street, Wilkes-Barre, with Reverend Michael E. Brewster officiating. Interment will follow in Oak Lawn Cemetery, Wilkes-Barre.

A viewing will be held from 9:00 AM till the time of the service. Kniffen O'Malley Leffler Funeral & Cremation Services have been entrusted with the arrangements.