Johnnie Sue Young's Obituary
Born a century ago, Johnnie Sue Young of Memphis, Texas, lived a life rich with love, legacy, and laughter. What is a century but the sum of countless moments woven into the tapestry of time? For Johnnie Sue, those moments were marked by the joy of family, the comfort of tradition, and the wonder of progress.
Johnnie Sue was born April 24, 1923 in Lakeview, Texas to John Byars and Kate (Jones) Byars. She passed away on Sunday, August 20, 2023 in Lubbock, Texas. She was preceded in death by her parents, her sister, Mary Lou, and her two brothers, Lloyd and JB Byars. Johnnie Sue met Foy Young, the love of her life on the baseball field when Foy’s team was short one player and asked twelve-year old Johnnie Sue to fill in. That was the start of their amazing legacy! For nearly 76 years, they shared an unbreakable bond of marriage until Foy went on to heaven in December of 2017. Their journey served as an inspiration to those fortunate enough to witness their enduring love.
“Mom”, as she was known to her family and her community, was the proud matriarch of a family that spanned five generations. Her legacy lives on through her daughters, Alice Kay Roden, and Betty Ann and Ronnie Morris, who carry her strength and compassion forward. Four grandchildren, ZAnn and Terry Messer, Ronald Dean, Jr, and Crystal Morris, Leigh Ann and Dan Hawthorne, and Michael and Julie Morris, were her pride and joy, reflecting her values and Christian spirit in their lives.
The impact of Mom’s presence was felt even more through her seven great-grandchildren, Jason and Claudia Messer, Jenna Robinette, Wes and Holli Hawthorne, Ronald Dean, III and Neele Morris, Casen Morris, Tori Morris, and Katelyn Morris, and of course, her “littles” whom she adored, her four great-great grandchildren, Clara, Thomas and Caroline Messer and Carter Robinette. She was also blessed with 5 bonus grandchildren, Debbie Blades, Holly Rush, Michael Roden, JC Roden and Tori Roden. She also had a huge impact on her many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Mom’s five generations serve as a testament to the love and bonds she nurtured across the years. From horse-drawn buggies to self-driving cars, she witnessed the world evolve, and in doing so, she became a bridge between eras.
As we gather to remember and mourn, let us also celebrate the gift of Mom’s century-long journey and rejoice at her receiving her reward in heaven. While we are grateful for the years we shared, our hearts ache at the absence of her presence. The chair she once occupied sits empty, a reminder of a presence that will forever be missed.
Though we had hoped for one more year, one more milestone to celebrate, we hold on to the memories and the lessons she imparted. Her spirit lives on in the hearts of all those whose lives she touched. While she may no longer be with us in the physical realm, her influence and love continue to shape the lives of her family and all who knew her.
“Get some rest, Mom”, knowing that your legacy lives on in the generations you nurtured and the love you shared. Your memory will forever be etched in our hearts.
Johnnie Sue’s Going Home Celebration will be held Friday, August 25, 2023 at 10:00 AM at the Memphis Church of Christ under the direction of Robertson Funeral Directors with Mark Lance and Dr. Mike Henderson officiating. Visitation will be Thursday from 4:00-6:00 PM at Robertson Funeral Home in Memphis, Texas.
Memorial gifts can be made to Memphis Home Delivered Meals or Program for Humanitarian Aid (PHA).
What’s your fondest memory of Johnnie?
What’s a lesson you learned from Johnnie?
Share a story where Johnnie's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Johnnie you’ll never forget.
How did Johnnie make you smile?
