On May 18, 1907, in Paducah, KY, Johnnie G. Lauderdale was born to parents Maude McClure and Howard L. Ross, Sr. Johnnie departed this earthly life for eternal rest on Friday, November 3, 2009, 8:35 p.m., at Oakview Nursing Home in Calvert City, KY.

Johnnie was educated in the public schools of Paducah. She was married at a very early age and to this union a daughter, Thelma B. Dunlap, was born.

During her working years, she was employed as a maid, as a caretaker for children at Stewart Nelson Park, and also at the Paducah Greyhound Bus Station. Johnnie united with the Washington Street Missionary Baptist Church and served as an usher. She was also a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and later served as the Worthy Matron.

Johnnie married James Lauderdale, and this union lasted for 24 years. She then moved to Chicago, IL in 1964 to live with her daughter and grandsons. There she began to travel with her daughter to California, taking exotic cruises to Honolulu, HI and beyond. Johnnie revived a long dormant natural talent she possessed for crocheting. She was able to crochet anything by just looking at a garment, as well as following the written instructions. She took orders and made everything from headpieces, scarves, and bedspreads. She ceased to crochet when her eyesight began to fail.

Johnnie was a faithful member of the Park Manor Christian Church in Chicago, IL. There she belonged to a group named "The Messengers" and also was president of the senior group for a while. She and a friend organized and hosted day trips for the seniors.

Johnnie had a long, active and enjoyable life. When her overall health began to deteriorate, she decided to go into the Morningside Assisted Living Facility in Paducah. This move she made on October 6, 2002.
Even there she was active until she was hospitalized.

Those to cherish her memories are a loving and devoted daughter, Bithyah A.B. Yisrael, also known as Thelma B. Webb, of Chicago, Il; a grandson Yehadah B. Yisrael; two sisters, Mrs. Louise Donaldson of Paducah and Rosa Holt of Chicago, IL; two brothers, Paul (Pearl) Ross of Detroit, MI and Charles (Sylvia) Ross of Chicago, IL; a special niece, Mrs. Jacqueline (Charles) Williams of Chicago, IL; faithful friends Jean Flye and Elva Mae Carruthers, both of Paducah; and several nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, four brothers, Reverend Robert O. Ross, Howard L. Ross, Jr., Marvin Ross, and Lonnie Ross; one sister, Alma Ross, and a grandson Byron Douglas Nailing.

Dear ones, rest in peace.