Ms. Johnnie M. Blount

Johnnie Monica Blount peacefully transitioned to be with her LORD on Wednesday, August 20, 2025, in Lansing, Michigan, at the age of 83 years. She was born on Saturday, February 28, 1942, in Shaw, Mississippi to parents, Mary Eliza Davis-Murphy and Robert Hayes.

Johnnie grew up in Clarksdale, Mississippi and attended Aggie High School. With her love for learning, she later relocated to Kansas City, Missouri where she furthered her education at the University of Missouri at Kansas City. She and her family moved to Lansing, Michigan in the 1970s. Johnnie found employment at McLaren Greater Lansing, formerly Lansing General Hospital, as a surgical nurse and remained with them for over 42 years. She retired in 2014.

Johnnie was a woman of faith and dedication. She was a devoted member of New Mount Calvery Baptist Church in Lansing, Michigan. She cherished worshipping and fellowship with her church family.

Johnnie enjoyed an active lifestyle. She loved walking, jogging, and spending time outdoors. She found joy in shopping, family gatherings, and especially moments with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Her warm personality and loving nature left an impression on everyone she knew and met.

Johnnie, leaves to cherish her memory her three daughters, Shirley Ann Hughes, Mary Ann (Fred) Ford, both of Waukegan, Illinois, and her youngest daughter, April R. Franklin of Lansing, Michigan; four grandchildren, Ryan Hughes, Bruce Hughes, Cheyanne Franklin-Truman, and her dearest granddaughter, Ieisha Summerville; six great-grandchildren, Gabrielle Franklin, Bryson Saxton, Malaysia Cole, Keyani Saxton, LaMelo Cole and Carter King. She also leaves behind her beloved sister, Charli Mae Williams of Toledo, Ohio. Johnnie was dearly loved by many nieces, nephews including two very special nephews, Willard Payne and Semaj Adams, other relatives, many extended family and friends who will also miss her including her lifelong dear friend, Elaine Mathis.

Johnnie was preceded in death by her husbands, Charles Blount and Irving E. Franklin; grandson, Ashure D. Lindsey; parents, Mary Eliza Davis-Murphy and Robert Hayes; and three brothers, Johnny Carroll Johnson, Willard L. Hughes, and Joe H. Davis.

Johnnie’s life was a testament to faith, family and love. She will forever be remembered for her kindness, strength, and the joy she brought to those around her.