Mae Estelle Johnson

Mae Estelle Boeckner Johnson was the fifth child of Aaron and Gertrude Boeckner of Hesston, Kansas. Mom was born on September 1, 1932. She took her flight to glory land on January 2, 2023 with most of her family standing around her bed, at Oakwood Manor in Brooksville, Ms. She reached the age of 90 years. Her formal education was received at French School in rural Moundridge, Kansas. At the age of 12, Mom found her Savior and was baptized into the Church of God in Christ Mennonite on November 21, 1944 by Min. Harry Wenger. She was faithful to her vows unto the end. She was united in marriage to Chester Johnson on December 31, 1950. They enjoyed nearly 69 years together. They made their home at the family farm south of DeRidder, Louisiana. In a little over two years and two babies later, Dad, with mom by his side, was ordained to the ministry in February of 1953. Mom had a quiet steady way, always standing beside Dad in his calling. Dad was no doubt the head of the home, but mom had her own gentle way of assisting him. Dad and Mom were very hospitable. Many times when visitors were in church they would soon be our guests at home. We found in mom a ready listening ear, we could take our struggles and troubles to her and she would hear us out. Mom really enjoyed it when the girls would prop a songbook on the window sill and sing while they did dishes. She loved flowers and was an avid gardener. As a wonderful homemaker she enjoyed her work and taught us children the value of a good work ethic as well. We often heard her whistling or humming a tune while she worked. Mom and Dad found fulfillment and joy in giving time in various mission locations. These included: Fleetwood and Shippensburg, Pennsylvania, the Philippines, Sarasota, Florida, and Hesson, Ontario. In 2013, folks moved to the Oakwood Community in Brooksville, MS. They enjoyed their time there, sharing time with old friends and making new ones. When Dad passed away 3 years ago, it left mom very lonely and she anxiously awaited the day God would call her home. She appreciated the loving care she received at Oakwood Manor during the last ten years of her life. Her survivors include her children: Kenneth and Fern, Macon, Mississippi, Barbara and Fred Toews, St. Mary's, Ontario, Carol and Chester Esau, Alan and Pamela, Dumas, Arkansas, Dianne and Duane Smith (presently serving in Uganda, East Africa), Marjorie and Wayne Litwiller, Curtis and Sharon, all of DeRidder, Louisiana. Thirty-four grandchildren and ninety-six great-grandchildren, two great-great-grandchildren. Brothers: Gerald and Thelma Boeckner, Weldon and Lois Boeckner, Dennis and Eileen Boeckner, Sisters: Vada Schmidt, JoAnn and Andrew Powell, Rose and Paul Toews, Lois and Fred Decker. Those who have gone on before: her parents, her husband, one brother, five sisters, one sister-in-law, four brother-in-laws, one grandson, and three great grandchildren.