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"A Queen’s Chronicle"
A QUEEN IS BORN
On September 7, 1939, in Chatfield, Texas, a beautiful soul named Baby Ruth Johnson was born to the proud parents Ruby Estella Randle Johnson and Will Johnson. Destined for greatness, her arrival marked the beginning of a legacy of love, faith, and strength that would bless generations to come.
THE QUEEN LEARNS
Baby Ruth received her early education in the Ennis Public School System and was a proud graduate of George Washington Carver High School, Class of 1959, in Ennis, Texas. Education laid the foundation, but her wisdom far exceeded the classroom.
THE QUEEN’S WORK AND WITNESS
Throughout her life, Baby Ruth was a woman of many talents and tireless dedication:
Longtime employee of Ennis Business Forms
Home Interiors sales representative for over 30 years
Certified Home Health Care Agent who compassionately served many
Gifted seamstress for Story Manufacturing
Renowned event decorator and wedding coordinator
Foster mother to over 20 children through the State of Texas — a true example of unconditional love and hospitality
Her work was more than employment — it was ministry. She poured her heart into every task with excellence and grace.
THE QUEEN’S PASSIONS
Baby Ruth embraced life fully:
She loved to travel, especially to the COGIC Holy Convocations in Memphis and St. Louis
Her kitchen was a ministry — she was an exceptional cook and baker, famously known for her butterroll
She proudly drove her signature Oldsmobiles and Cadillacs, a reflection of her confident presence
She found joy in spending time with her children, grandchildren, siblings, nieces, nephews, cousins, and church family
She made every space warmer, every moment sweeter, and every person feel valued.
THE QUEEN’S FAITHFUL FOUNDATION
At a young age, Baby Ruth gave her heart to Jesus Christ and remained a devoted servant all her life.
She was a faithful member of Holy Temple COGIC in Ennis, Texas under the leadership of Elder Lonzo Fields, where she served as a Sunday School Teacher
After moving to Dallas in 1988, she united with Eastside Church of God in Christ under Superintendent Frank Sowells, where she continued to grow in grace. She remained a faithful member under the pastoral care of Elder Patrick Sowells
Her walk with Christ was sincere, steadfast, and spirit-filled — a true Proverbs 31 woman.
THE QUEEN SLEEPS
In the early morning hours of June 3, 2025, the Lord gently called Queen Baby Ruth Johnson home. She fell asleep and awakened in glory, joining a heavenly reunion with her loved ones who went before her.
She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Ruby Estella and Will Johnson; her devoted sisters, Dorothy Collins and Betty Lou Elix; and her dear brother, R.V. Johnson.
THE QUEEN’S ROYAL LEGACY
Her legacy continues through:
Her loving children: Sam Bates, Jr. and Gerald Johnson (Ree) of Dallas, Texas, and Vickie Marie Johnson of Ennis, Texas
Her devoted siblings: Lela Fields (Dallas), Sarah McDade (Ennis), Martha Hatcher (Ft. Worth), and Washington Johnson (San Antonio)
18 grandchildren, 44 great-grandchildren, and 14 great-great-grandchildren
A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and her Eastside COGIC family.
To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Baby Ruth Johnson, please visit our floral store.