In Loving Memory of Laverne Pleasant Johnson

Laverne Pleasant Johnson, affectionately known as "Betty," was born on January 11, 1937, in Houston, Texas, to Nellie Nealy. She was lovingly raised by her mother and stepfather, Jackson Dailey. Laverne attended Wheatley High School through her junior year and later earned her G.E.D., demonstrating her commitment to education and personal growth.

As the twelfth of thirteen children, Laverne was raised in a large family. At an early age, she was baptized at Galilee Baptist Church in Houston’s Greater Fifth Ward. It was there that she discovered her passion for music. She began piano lessons and developed into a gifted and accomplished pianist. Her talent and dedication led her to serve as the pianist for Galilee Baptist Church, where she faithfully shared her musical gifts with the congregation.

On June 12, 1953, Laverne Pleasant and Andrew D. Johnson were united in holy matrimony. Their loving union was blessed with two children, Gwendolyn Joyce and Stanley Lawrence. In 1963, the family became devoted members of Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, where Laverne remained an active and faithful servant for many years.

Laverne pursued her interest in beauty and cosmetology by attending Franklin Beauty School. She later opened and operated her own beauty salon in her neighborhood, and taught piano lessons to gifted students, providing services and warm friendships to countless members of the community. She also served her community with distinction as a Precinct Judge for many years. Laverne accepted an Outstanding Grandparent Award, September 11, 2016, presented by Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., Humble Intercontinental Chapter, for her untiring love and dedication to family and community.

Her professional career began in government service as a typist in the Veterans Administration typing pool. Through dedication and hard work, she advanced to become a secretary with the Army ROTC in Houston and ultimately retired from Navy ROTC at Rice University, where she was loved by the staff and students. In recognition of her 22 years of dedicated civilian service, she received an award from Governor George W. Bush on December 18, 1996.

At Antioch Missionary Baptist Church, Laverne's faith was reflected in her active involvement and leadership. She received the Woman of Faith Award from the Women's Ministry and faithfully served as a member of the Youth Matrons, Hospitality Committee, Bereavement Ministry, and Golden Saints.

Laverne was an avid reader who enjoyed discussing politics and current events. She loved traveling with her devoted husband and treasured attending plays, concerts, and symphony performances. Her passion for music continued throughout her life. At the age of 61, she learned to play the Yamaha Clavinova and, in 1998, won first place in the Adult Division of the Yamaha Clavinova Festival.

Laverne was known for her loving spirit, generous heart, and faith in God. She expressed her care for others through thoughtful gestures, often sending birthday, sympathy, get-well, and "just thinking of you" cards to family and friends. Her kindness, compassion, and generosity touched everyone she encountered.

As the matriarch of her family, Laverne exemplified love, grace, strength, faithfulness, humility, and her unwavering faith in God. She had a remarkable ability to make every person feel valued and important. A respected friend, trusted confidante, attentive listener, and a true woman of God, she left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Laverne was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Andrew D. Johnson; her parents, Nellie and Jackson Dailey; and eleven of her siblings.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory and continue her legacy: her daughter, Gwendolyn Baylis, her son, Stanley Johnson, three grandchildren, Tasha Scott McCauley (Jamil), Leslie Scott Allen (Elverez), and Stephen C. Johnson, and eight great-grandchildren, Tasiah Rodgers, Jahz Rodgers, Jayhlin Rodgers, Ariel Allen, Ava McCauley, Ethan McCauley, Edyn Allen, and Logan McCauley. She also leaves her last surviving sister, Merline Ross, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, dear friends, and loved ones who will forever hold her memory close to their hearts.

Well done, good and faithful servant.

The life and legacy of Ms. Laverne Pleasant Johnson will be forever cherished by her family and friends.

Services Have Been Entrusted to the Professionals of

Allen Dave Funeral Homes & Crematorium

2103 Cypress Landing Drive

 Houston, Texas 77090

(713) 480-2966

www.allendave.com