CELEBRATING THE LIFE & LEGACY OF ELDER GLORIA DEAN JOHNSON

With hearts full of gratitude for a life beautifully lived and a legacy deeply rooted in faith, we celebrate the life of Elder Gloria Dean Johnson, a devoted servant of God, loving matriarch, faithful nurse, and powerful woman of the Word.

Elder Gloria Dean Johnson was born in Cleveland, Ohio, on April 13, 1933, to the late Washington and Melvirda McCall. She was preceded in death by her beloved parents and her older brother, Alfred McCall.

From an early age, Gloria demonstrated strength, determination, and a heart for service. She graduated from Glenville High School in June 1953 and went on to earn her practical nursing certification from Jane Addams Practical Nursing School in 1955. She faithfully served in the nursing profession for over 30 years, compassionately caring for others and making a meaningful difference in countless lives.

Her service extended far beyond healthcare. A woman deeply committed to her faith, Elder Johnson was licensed as an Elder at Crawford Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in 1978 under the leadership of Bishop Robert L. Hubbard, Sr. She further enriched her ministry through studies at the Inner-City Renewal School at Case Western Reserve University.

In 1985, Elder Johnson answered the call to ministry with boldness and conviction. She pursued counseling studies at Ashland Seminary in 1987 and later continued her theological education through the McQuary Education Center Annex of Ashland University, completing studies in Black Theology under Dr. William Myers in May 1998.

Elder Johnson joined Double Portion Ministries in 1999 under Tina R. Pearl and later became a faithful leader at Greater Works Deliverance Center, where she served under Bishop Tina R. Pearl. Ordained as an Apostle in 2003, she faithfully served as Mother of Zion, Assistant Pastor, administrator, and School of Ministry instructor.

Her spiritual journey continued as she joined 4Real Church in 2016 under the leadership of Overseer Ronald Hubbard, where she remained a faithful worshiper and servant.

Elder Gloria Dean Johnson loved the Lord with all her heart and was unapologetically committed to His Word. She was known for her vibrant spirit, her signature high heels, and her unwavering testimony of God’s goodness. She never met a stranger and had a gift for making people feel seen, loved, and challenged. If she believed your soul needed saving, she would lovingly tell you so—even up until her final days. More than anything, she deeply loved her children and grandchildren, who brought tremendous joy, pride, and purpose to her life. Her love for family was fierce, faithful, and unwavering.

For the last eight years of her life, Elder Johnson resided at McGregor Home, where she was treated with dignity, compassion, and kindness by the staff and caregivers who became part of her extended family.

After 93 remarkable years of life and faithful service, Elder Gloria Dean Johnson peacefully transitioned from labor to reward on May 13, 2026.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her beloved children: Mario Wade, Roy Wade, Wanda Wade, and Audrey McGhee (Freddie); her cherished grandchildren: Denise McMullin (Demiris), Tasha Longs, Mia Roberts, Monique Blalock, Michael Johnston, Jeremias McGhee, and Ken’Nautajah Griggs; her treasured great-grandchildren: Aden, Landen, and Nicholas Schenk Jaxson Longs; her beloved nephews: Michael and Marvin McCall; along with a host of cousins, extended family members, dear friends, and all whose lives were touched by her wisdom, faith, and fierce love.

Elder Gloria Dean Johnson fought the good fight, kept the faith, and finished her race with grace, strength, and holy boldness. Her legacy of faith, service, truth-telling, unconditional love, and devotion to family will continue to inspire generations to come.

Well done, good and faithful servant.