Marion Louise Johnson-Byrd
It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Marian Louise Johnson-Byrd, a beloved sister, cherished friend, and devoted member of Stanley Methodist Church, who passed away peacefully at her home on September 29, 2024.
Marian was born on Feb. 4, 1949, in Chattanooga, as the sixth of seven children to the late Johnny and Mary C. Johnson. She confessed her faith at an early age and was baptized at Stanley United Methodist Church in Chattanooga, where her spiritual journey began.
Marian was a graduate of Riverside High School class of 1967. After graduation, she attended Chattanooga City College (now known as The University of TN at Chattanooga) and later, Edmonton Business School before moving to Washington, D.C.
While living in Washington, D.C., Marian blossomed like a flower. She worked at the University of the District of Columbia, the U.S. House of Representatives, the International World Bank, and the Department of Education’s Drug-Free Schools Program. Life was wonderful, and she believed she would make Washington her permanent home. However, during one of her summer visits back to see family, she met the love of her life, Calvin L. Byrd. They later married and joined Mt. Canaan Baptist Church in Chattanooga, where they were delighted and blessed to be part of the congregation.
After the pandemic, Marian felt the spirit leading her back to her childhood church, Stanley United Methodist. There, she felt truly at home, both in body and spirit. She was excited to join the choir, serve on the usher board, and even made time to attend CPR classes. Marian’s spirit continued to thrive, and she was at peace, feeling so blessed to be back at the church where she had been baptized as a child. She was thrilled to get involved in church activities, as her mother had done many years before.
Marian will be remembered for her infectious smile, a true beacon of warmth and love to the community. Her willingness to serve others was at the heart of who she was, and she was deeply involved in various community initiatives. She was a dedicated volunteer in Chattanooga, working with Preserve Chattanooga for many years and actively serving at local and national voting polls. Marian was always ready to help whenever called upon. She also enjoyed baking for her family and friends, sharing her love through homemade treats. Her smile and laughter brought light into every room. She will be remembered and missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.
She is survived by her five sisters, Joann Russell, Doris Jean Phipps, Johnnie Mae Smith, Mary Pollard (Nathaniel), Bonnie Gilbert (Robert); her nieces: Stephanie G. Russell-Splawn (Calvin), Linda Lawrence, Rosalind Phillips (Fred), and April Gary (Nathaniel); her nephews: Jeffery T. Johnson, Sr., Christopher Russell, Vaughn Phipps, Vincent Phipps (Benita), and Jonathan Pollard (Dorn), and a host of cousins, friends, and neighbors. While Louise has now rejoined her husband, sister (Bettye Lou Martin), and her parents, Johnny & Mary C. Johnson, and is now rejoicing in her heavenly home. Her legacy of love, faith, and laughter will live on in the hearts of her family, friends, and church community.
Public viewing will begin at 2-6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 15, at the funeral home. The celebration of life service will be held at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 16, at Stanley United Methodist Church, located at 501 Dodson Ave.
Interment will follow at Lakewood Memory Gardens East.
Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, Chattanooga, 423-622-9995.