Inez Johnson

Inez Barton Johnson AKA Mom, Granny, Aunt Inie, Mother Dear and Pet name Caldonia.

With grateful hearts and unwavering faith in God, we celebrate the extraordinary life of Inez Barton Johnson, who peacefully entered into eternal rest on Friday, July 17 at the remarkable age of 102. A devoted woman of God, she lived a life rooted in faith, love, grace, and service, leaving a legacy that will continue to inspire generations.

Born May 29, 1924, in Turner’s Bend community of Rome, GA. She was born to the union of Isaiah and Buelah Barton. She was educated in the Rome Colored High School and was a 10th grade valedictorian. She relocated from Rome, GA to Clinton, Tennessee.

She was a very active member of Lennon-Seney United Methodist Church for over 80 years. She was a member of United Methodist Women, United Progressive Fellowship, Chancel Choir, Ladies Usher Board, Alter Guild, Kitchen Committee and advisor for the Junior Usher Board. She was a founding member of United Gospel Singers in the 70’ and 80’s. She was also a part of the 10/20 social club.

She was employed as a personal assistant for many years until she joined the University of Tennessee Environmental Service staff. She retired from UT as an inventory clerk. After her retirement, she enjoyed working on her crossword puzzles, watching Wheel of Fortune, Jeopardy, Dancing with the Stars and was an avid UT Vols and Atlanta Braves fan.

Inez shared a beautiful marriage of more than 60 years with her beloved husband, George Wardell Johnson, Sr. Together they built a loving home centered on faith, family, and enduring commitment. She found great joy in cooking delicious meals, listening to gospel music, singing songs of praise, and opening her home to entertain family and friends. Her warm hospitality, generous heart and infectious smile made everyone feel welcome. She treasured every opportunity to gather those she loved creating cherished memories that will live on for generations. Although her presence will be deeply missed, her legacy of faith, love, kindness, and devotion to family will continue to inspire all whose lives she touched.

Inez was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Isaiah and Beulah Barton; her devoted husband of over 60 years, George Wardell Johnson, Sr.; her cherished sons, George “Big George” and Hendricks “Okie” Johnson; Her beloved niece, Knorvel (James) Jackson, whom she lovingly raised as her own; her daughter-in-law, Zelda Johsnon; her son-in-law, Kevin “Von” Turner; and Godson, Greg Waggoner. She is also preceded in death by her siblings, CT (Minnie Lee) Turner, Mary Scruggs Jasper, and Nevie (Classie) Barton; and best friend/sister, Billie Lorraine George.

Inez leaves to cherish her precious memory her loving daughter, Beulah Diane Johnson Turner; her devoted sons, Gary (Pamela) Johnson and Dennis Johnson; her beloved daughter-in-law, Royostine “Roxy” Johnson; her cherished Godchildren, Thomesena McKinney, Randall Drew and Larry Smith of Nashville, TN.

She also leaves 16 grandchildren, 27 great-grandchildren, 11 great-great-grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, other loving relatives, dear friends and all whose lives were enriched by her faith, kindness, and unconditional love. 

She also leaves to cherish her memory a devoted extended family, including the Turner, Barton, Scruggs, Jackson, Buford, and Hendricks Families; Johnnie Christian, Dwann “Tree” Christian, Bea and Heiskell Hamilton, John and Karolyn Barnes, Mary Frances Clark, Patricia Johnson, Jackie Blair Styles, Harriet Johnson, Lennon-Seney Church Family, and Jarnigan & Son Family. 

Special Thank You to Holston Health and Rehab and Fort Sanders hospital doctors and staff. Also, Shelia Hensley who was her hairdresser for over 30 years.

The family will receive friends Sunday, July 26, 2026 at Lennon-Seney United Methodist Church, 2084 Dandridge Ave, Knoxville, TN 37915, from 3 to 4 pm, with funeral services to follow. Rev. Dr. Harold Middlebrook officiating. Rev. Ernest Scruggs eulogist. Interment will be held Tuesday July 28, 2026 at 1pm at Tennessee State Veterans Cemetery, 5901 Lyons View Pike Knoxville, TN 37919.

Final arrangements entrusted to Jarnigan & Son Mortuary.