Thelma Ann (Cole) Johnson was born on October 15, 1926, in Cincinnati, Ohio. She was the fourth born child to the union of Albert Cole and Annie Cole Washington. Thelma accepted Christ at an early age and was baptized at Mt. Sinai Church.

As a young adult, Thelma's involvement with the church became more prominent. She, along with her mother and sister Evelyn Hughes, would become founding members of Morning Star Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor James Wynn.

She received her education from Harriet Beecher Stowe School. With the limited education she had, Thelma was still able to conquer unimaginable endeavors. Much like with Morningstar Baptist Church. Thelma founded the Voices of Meditation with her mother and aunts. As the lead singer and under her direction, the voices of meditation recorded several Eps.

Thelma was affectionately called Baby, Girlfriend, Mama, Mama T, My Momma, Sister, and TJ. She acquired these names over many years of being a caregiver, friend, mother, pastor's wife, aunt, grandmother, and overall leader. Thelma was a force to be reckoned with while still being available for everyone who needed her.

She will be fondly remembered for her style, iron rod, quick hand, and a great sense of fashion. Thelma married James E. Johnson on July 11, 1958. During the time of their union, James was called into ministry. They would both go on to play significant roles in the Baptist Ministers Alliance. Reverend Johnson would start Zion Temple in 1960. Thelma was the driving force of the church. She took charge of creating and managing all organizations.

After the passing of her husband, Thelma joined Miracle Holiness under the leadership of Pastor Jonny Stephens and then New Life Temple under the direction of the Late Pastor Ralph Godfrey.

Thelma's nurturing character paved the way for her to foster 105 children. Throughout this process, she and Pastor James were awarded at Fountain Square for this honor.

Thelma is preceded in death by her husband, The late great Pastor James E Johnson; all of her siblings, Pauline Williams, Solomon Thomas (ST) Cole, Nathaniel (Bubble) Cole, and Evelyn Hughes; her son, Arthur Moss; her daughter, Tonya Johnson; three great-grandchildren; her niece, Paula Rease-Cole; and many other loved ones.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children, Sara Bane-Hunter, Vernita Harrison, Ophelia Godfrey, Jane Bailey, Michael Turner, Donna Wallace (Michael), Brenda Wills, Holly Johnson-Davis, LaShon Valentine, and Toneil Johnson (Mark); five Godchildren, 36 Grandchildren, 53 Great Grandchildren, 31 Great-Great Grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and loved ones.

Visitation is from 9:00 am until 11:00 am, on  Friday, March 19, 2021, at the St. Mark AME Zion Church, 9208 Daly Road, Cincinnati  (45231).   The funeral service will immediately follow the visitation beginning at 11:00 am. Everyone attending must wear a mask and practice social distancing.

Interment will follow at Spring Grove Cemetery, 4521 Spring Grove Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45232.

In keeping with the Covid-19 Pandemic restrictions masks are required in order to enter the service and social distancing must be practiced.  Please be prepared to comply for the safety of all.

To share a memory of Thelma or leave a special message for the Johnson family, please click the "Tribute Wall" tab above and to the right, enter the information, and click "Save Post."

Walker Funeral Home is honored to serve the  Johnson family.  Please call (513) 251-6200 or visit www.WalkerFuneralHome.com for additional information.