Obituary of Jessalyn Gray Johnson

Jessalyn Gray Johnson was born in Texarkana, Texas to the parentage of Clarence L. Gray and Emma Mae Sasser Gray on October 28, 1937. She accepted God at an early age and remained devout her entire life. Jessalyn excelled as a student at Dunbar High School, so much so, that the local branch of the N.A.A.C.P. sponsored she and another young man to attempt to integrate Texarkana Junior College in 1956. This attempt was unsuccessful due to the hostile actions of a crowd. The N.A.A.C.P. offered a scholarship to Jessalyn at the newly integrated North Texas State College, now The University of North Texas. Her scholarship was managed by the esteemed Dallas Civil Rights leader, Mrs. Juanita Craft. At The University of North Texas, Jessalyn met and married the love of her life, Herbie Kay Johnson. To this union two sons were born, Larry and James K. Jessalyn loved her church; Metropolitan Baptist, and she loved her civic/social club; Dallas Metropolitan Business and Professional Women’s Club. She was also an active member of The Cedar Crest Neighborhood Association. During their retirement, Jessalyn and Herbie traveled extensively throughout the United States, Canada, and Europe sight seeing and attending music festivals. She leaves to cherish her memory, her husband of fifty-nine years, her sons, her grandchildren (nine), her great grandchildren (6), and a host of relatives and friends Jessalyn lived a brave and love filled life and will never be forgotten.