Mother Dolores Johnson

Mother Dolores N. Johnson, born January 30, 1930, was the 12th of 14 children to Eugene and Ida Lee Newton. Raised in Philadelphia, Dolores deeply cherished the unbreakable bond she shared with her siblings and was immensely proud of her Newton family heritage. Her early talent for public speaking and love of English naturally led to her election as school president and graduation as valedictorian. Dolores' diverse and fulfilling career spanned several roles: clerk typist at the Department of Public Assistance, positions at the Census Bureau and Kraft Foods, and finally, a dedicated role at the Budd Company from which she retired in 1984. Retirement marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter: Dolores devoted herself to caring for her beloved granddaughter Kristin, worked part-time as a receptionist at Elkins Park House, and provided cherished companion care to seniors, accompanying them to appointments and running errands. Her joy in assisting others led to 25 rewarding years as a private chef with the Korman family. Dolores was an avid shopper, delighting in bargain hunting at the Dollar Store, supermarkets, Kohl's, and her favorite thrift stores. Throughout her life, Dolores' strong work ethic, love of people, and passion for culinary arts helped define her vibrant and purpose-filled journey.

More than anything, Dolores loved God. Throughout her 94 years, she was a faithful servant of Mt. Zion FBH Church, dedicating herself to numerous roles: church musician, secretary, Sunday school teacher, pastor’s aide, YPI president, choir director, convention committee, and head of the Kitchen committee. Nationally, Dolores was the vice president of the Sisters of Chairty convention. Dolores prioritized youth, organizing countless bus trips as fundraisers, always prioritizing their attendance over profit. She took pride in teaching them etiquette and protocol. As head of the Kitchen committee, Dolores ensured that when people came to Zion, they knew they would receive both spiritual and physical nourishment. Her final cherished appointment was as Church Mother. She absolutely loved being called Mother Johnson Dolores' devotion to her faith and family remained constant throughout her life.

Family was the cornerstone of Dolores' life. Her immense pride in her Newton family was evident to all who knew her. She reveled in the lively debates over current events and politics during intense Scrabble games with her sisters and nieces, often marveling at the accomplishments and intelligence of her beloved nieces. Dolores deeply appreciated intelligent individuals. While the Newton family was vast, Dolores' immediate family was small: her daughter Karen and granddaughter Kristin. Karen's arrival brought Dolores immense joy, inspiring her to create a childhood filled with cherished memories and adventures. As Karen grew older, their shared love of dining out, especially at cozy diners, strengthened their bond. Dolores took great delight in sampling dishes and playfully critiquing the cuisine and characters alongside Karen. In 1984, Karen gifted Dolores with her pride and joy, Kristin. From the age of five, Dolores nurtured Kristin's talents, teaching her memorization techniques to enhance her writing and public speaking skills. Dolores was Kristin's greatest supporter, always encouraging her to strive for excellence. For Dolores, Kristin was the grandchild she loved to spoil, showering her with love and affection. For Kristin, Dolores was the hero of her life's story, providing the push and drive needed to pursue her dreams. Dolores also cherished her adopted family, Jan and Willie Jones, spending countless hours in their home, her second home. She and Jan loved watching and discussing Hallmark and Lifetime movies, while Willie was always ready to assist Dolores with errands. Dolores' heart swelled with pride over her angel, Dahsir, eagerly anticipating news of his academic achievements. Her love for family knew no bounds.

Dolores was loved by many, with her affection often forged over the delicious meals she took such pride in preparing. Renowned for her incomparable baked macaroni and cheese (a secret recipe she guarded dearly), Dolores found joy in nourishing those she loved. You could usually find her in the kitchen, whether at church or at family gatherings, always ready to feed both bodies and souls. By her side would be Harold, her faithful partner in culinary crime. Together, they maintained a kitchen of warmth, order, and abundant food. Dolores played an instrumental role in shaping Harold into the skilled cook he is today. Working alongside this dynamic duo brought not only delicious creations but also a side of good-natured banter, leaving a lasting legacy of full hearts and fond memories.

Dolores' infectious love and diverse talents, from music to cooking to public speaking, forged deep bonds with countless individuals. Many lovingly referred to Dolores as Aunt Dee. Her influence is remembered through the many stories of how she encouraged others to reach their full potential, whether through a shared meal, active

support, or words of wisdom. Dolores had a way of connecting with people and loved to bring happiness to others. Her deeds were often behind the scenes, but their impact was profound. Those who had the privilege of a personal relationship with Dolores cherished her humor, even when she wasn't trying to be funny. Dolores was fiercely loyal, and did not stand for anyone coming against those she loved. In the rare instance that someone was mad at Dolores, she would simply cook that person a meal and all would be well. Dolores was truly a gem that will forever be remembered. Throughout her 94 vibrant years, she left an impeccable mark, imparting wisdom and spreading love that will be felt for generations to come.

Dolores leaves to cherish her legacy: one daughter, Karen Johnson, one granddaughter, Kristin Fulton, special godson, W. Harold Jones II, sister in love, Sarah Newton, her entire Newton Family, countless godchildren, Greater Mt. Zion FBH church family, and friends.

Sorrowfully Submitted

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