Ms. Cleo R. Johnson

Cleo Rozena Johnson was born January 23, 1966 to William and Rowena (Johnson) Sullivan. She was their only child. Cleo attended the Kansas City, Missouri School District. She graduated from High School, then attended Central Missouri University in Warrensburg, Missouri. After college she, joined the US Army Reserve and completed her training. Cleo was a happy child and enjoyed being in the kitchen watching her mother cook. She would make snicker doodle cookies for her dad. He would praise her even though the cookies were as hard as rocks. She would beam with joy and happiness when he praised her. Unfortunately, both of her parents passed away from a stroke and heart attack in the same year 1978. She was 12 years. She was then cared for by her older sister, Robbie Ross who raised her as her own child and loved her. She taught Cleo to be honest, independent and self-sufficient. Cleo learned how to sew and was an excellent seamstress. She continued on with her desire to cook and made delicious meals. She managed her money well. She loved to find a bargain.She was thrifty and loved to go to garage sales. She had a kind heart and was proud to be “Auntie” to her nieces and nephews. She would always say “Auntie loves you.” She loved people and had friendships with people from her high school days. Cleo loved to travel with her friends and had just recently returned from Puerto Rico. She had one child, William 28 years old and she loved him dearly. Her sisters nicknamed her “Hollywood.” She had a sense of style that was classy, dignified, modest and respectful. She wore her hats well and when she walked in a room full of people, she looked so sophisticated. Cleo was a long time member and faithfully attended Olive Branch Baptist Church including attending Sunday school. She was active in projects that included cleaning up the church. She would take the bus/public transport to get to the church. She had a desire to serve the Lord in any way she could. She loved the Lord. Jesus is her savior. She was preceded in death by her parents William and Rowena Sullivan; one brother Roy Lee; and one sister Robbie Ross. She leaves to cherish her memories her only son, William Sullivan Smith, and a sister, Karen Rush (Libe) Stephanie Ross (niece and hospice caregiver)and many other cousins, nieces and nephews that are to numerous to name . Memorial service will be held Saturday, October 7, 2023, 11:00am at the Olive Branch Missionary Baptist Church. Services conducted by Lawrence A. Jones & Sons Funeral Chapel. Condolences may be shared on our website lawrenceajones.com

Ms. Cleo R. Johnson

January 23, 1966 - September 23, 2023