Olinzie Jeanette Johnson

Olinzie Jeanette DeVaughn Johnson, affectionately known as “Mother”, “Lynne” and “Lady Di” was a woman of elegance, strength, wit and unmistakable spirit. She passed away at the age of 102, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of love, service, family and perseverance.

Born October 24, 1923, in Shorter, Alabama, Olinzie was the daughter of Petral Jeter DeVaughn and Booker DeVaughn Sr. Her life would take her across several cities and states, but wherever she lived, she carried with her the values, determination, and strength that would define her extraordinary life.

After leaving Shorter, Alabama, Olinzie’s life included chapters in Harlem, New York, and Boston, Massachusetts. She eventually moved to Rougemont, North Carolina, the hometown of her beloved husband, Marvin Johnson. In 1950, Olinzie and Marvin made their home in Durham, North Carolina, where they would spend the remainder of their lives together.

Olinzie was a devoted wife to the late Marvin Johnson and a loving mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Her family was at the center of her world, and she took great pride in the generations that followed her. She leaves to cherish her memory her daughter, Geraldine Johnson Grice; granddaughter, Shaleah Lynne Grice; and great-granddaughter, Sidhe Lily Williams. She is also lovingly remembered by her godchild, Phyllis Timberlake, and her brother and sister-in-law, Dr. Booker T. DeVaughn and Dr. Elena DeVaughn, a host of nieces and nephews, along with extended family, friends, and countless members of the organizations and communities she served.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Marvin Johnson; her son-in-law, Howard L. Grice; her parents, Petral Jeter DeVaughn and Booker DeVaughn Sr.; her sisters, Velma Robinson, Eula Johnson, Ardenia Jackson, Edith Marie Williams, and Ella Julia Harris; her foster sister, Janie Evans; her brothers, Cleophus DeVaughn Sr., Luther DeVaughn, and Ludie DeVaughn Sr.; and her godchild, Geraldine M. Daye.

Olinzie was a woman who could not easily be overlooked. She was outspoken, elegant, and fiercely independent. She knew her mind and was never afraid to express it. She carried herself with a grace and dignity that reflected the generation from which she came, while her wit and spirited personality ensured that those around her always knew exactly where she stood. Her presence was unforgettable, and she had a way of making sure her voice was heard.

She also had a love for travel and experiencing the world beyond her own doorstep. Whether near or far, traveling offered Olinzie an opportunity to see new places, experience different surroundings, and enjoy life on her own terms. Her love of travel reflected the adventurous spirit that remained a part of her throughout her long life.

Faith was also an important part of Olinzie's journey. As a child in Shorter, Alabama, she was a member of Mary Magdalene Missionary Baptist Church. After moving to North Carolina, she joined Red Mountain Baptist Church in Rougemount. In 1959, she became a member of Mt. Level Missionary Baptist Church in Durham, North Carolina, where she continued her spiritual journey and connection to her community. She served as the President of the Missionary Bible Class which was later renamed to the R.G. Lipscomb Missionary Bible Class.

Professionally, Olinzie was a dedicated Lab Technician at Duke University, where she worked for more than four decades. Beginning her career in 1949, she faithfully served Duke University until her retirement in 1989. Her 40 years of service reflected the same qualities she brought to every part of her life: commitment, intelligence, discipline, and pride in doing things well. After retirement, Olinzie continued to stay active, working as an exercise instructor at the Durham Center for Senior Life. She was also very active in civic and community organizations, extending her commitment to service well beyond her professional life.

Olinzie was a proud and devoted member of Drucilla Chapter #19 of the Order of the Eastern Star, Prince Hall Affiliation, in Durham, North Carolina. She served with distinction as Worthy Matron of Drucilla Chapter #19 from 1970-1972 and Council Matron of the Administrative Council of the 10th District, before being elected Grand Worthy Matron of the Jurisdiction of the North Carolina Grand Chapter, Order of the Eastern Star (PHA), serving from 1995 to 1998.

Her commitment extended to numerous affiliated organizations. She was a Daughter in Zafa Court #41 of the Imperial Court Daughters of Isis and a Heroine of Boyd and Hodge Court #7, Heroines of Jericho, PHA. She was awarded the title of Honorary Past Grand Most Ancient Matron of the North Carolina Grand Court Heroines of Jericho, PHA. She also served as a Lady of University Assembly #218 in the Order of the Golden Circle.

Olinzie was also a member of the Durham Section of the National Council of Negro Women, a member of the Chandeliers, a Durham social and community service club, and a member and past President of the Triangle Cities International Training Communication Organization.

Through her leadership, wisdom, and unwavering service, Olinzie touched countless lives, and left a lasting legacy in her church, community, and sisterhood. Through the many organizations she served, she cultivated friendships, mentored others, and remained an active and respected presence throughout her life.

At 102 years old, Olinzie leaves behind far more than memories. She leaves a legacy of strength, service, independence, faith, and family—a legacy carried forward by the generations who loved her and by the many lives she touched along the way.