TERESA RAMONA JOHNSON
JUNE 3, 1960 - AUGUST 9, 2024
For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens II Cor.5:1
Mrs. Teresa Ramona Johnson was born in New Providence and raised by her mother Mrs. Joycelyn Armbrister nee Johnson and grandmother Mrs. Ivy Johnson (predeceased). She received her early childhood education at Timothy Gibson Primary School. She later attended the TG Glover Junior High School and the A.F. Adderley Senior High School, from which she graduated from in June 1977.
She began her tenure as a public servant on 25th July 1978, as a Filing Assistant for the Ministry of Labour and Home Affairs. Over time her attention to detail, and intellect were recognized as exemplary and in January 1984, she was awarded an accelerated increment for meritorious service and promoted to the post of Senior Clerk in October 1985. Here, she functioned as Assistant Supervisor of the Department of Labour’s Registry for several years. This promotion gave her direct supervisory experience, and she quickly earned the trust, respect, and admiration of her subordinates, colleagues, and supervisors alike. Her exacting performance in this role led to various positions as Secretary to numerous Heads of Departments, Deputy Directors, and Directors of Labour, all of whom spoke of her commitment to excellence in all aspects of her work.
Seeking a new challenge, in November 1997 she was redeployed to the Apprenticeship Board originally located in Nassau Court, in the post of Secretary, to the Secretary of the Apprenticeship Board. This job was arduous; the hours were extensive but extremely rewarding as she assisted in the preparation of curriculums, theoretical and practical training in several trades where young individuals became employable. While occupied in this capacity she was promoted to Chief Clerk in 1993.
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Upon her return to the Department of Labour, she was briefly reassigned to the Director’s Office. However, her supervisor recognized that she was capable of much more and the result was a promotion to Exchange Officer with the Employment Exchange. Here she assisted persons seeking Employment.
Teresa’s journey was one marked by remarkable achievements and a deep commitment to making a difference. In 2003 Teresa was recommended for the Chief Clerk assessment and promoted to Executive Officer. In gratitude, she earned an Associate’s Degree in Human Services at Atlantic College and Theological Seminary graduating Magna Cum Laude and received an award for achieving the highest average in Human Services. In June 2021, she earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Services, graduating with the highest honors.
Based on her impressive experience, intellect, productivity, and in-depth knowledge of the Department of Labour, Teresa was redeployed by the former Director, Mr. Robert Farquharson, to serve as an Assistant Supervisor at the Robinson Road Office for two years. In August 2016, she was promoted to Supervisor at the Carmichael Road Office, further showcasing her capabilities and leadership skills. Teresa’s career is a testament to her unwavering dedication and exceptional skills, culminating in her promotion to Assistant Director of Labour in 2022.
In her role as Assistant Director, Teresa was instrumental in shaping and advancing training and development programs for employees. She spearheaded various initiatives, including management programs aimed at fostering growth and enhancing leadership within the organization. Her expertise in designing and implementing these programs highlighted her profound understanding of employee development and her commitment to nurturing talent within the department.
Throughout her life she was a force for good. As a lifelong civil servant: she benefited from the coaching and guidance freely given by many mentors, like her Aunt Vernita Johnson (predeceased). She understood that the next generation of civil servants also needed guidance. Therefore, she turned her talent, decades of experience, and generosity towards preparing the next generation of civil servants. Particularly, she served as a mentor for every young adult and student working in her purview, and continued to do so throughout her career. She welcomed the difficult conversations because she knew they would lead to growth. Her goal: to inspire the next generation to be industrious, hardworking, stewards of the public’s trust.
Teresa was selfless with family, particularly when it came to education, helping her cousin Nyrée’s transition to graduate school, annually preparing nieces, nephews and other family and friends to return to school. A true philanthropist, she donated to charitable organizations such as the Children’s Emergency Hostel, served as an Executive of the Gamble Heights Crime Watch Association, Tutor for Project Read and Member of the Voice of the Watchman Evangelistic Association.
Teresa’s life was a rich tapestry woven with love, achievement, and dedication, both in her personal and professional spheres. Her marriage to Mr. Rohn Johnson Sr. was an important part of her life, helping to build a family that was the heart of her world. Together, they raised two wonderful children who carry forward her legacy of excellence and compassion. Her daughter, Kara Forbes, pursued a fulfilling career as a teacher, embodying the same commitment to nurturing and guiding others that Teresa cherished. Her son, Rohn Johnson Jr., has made his mark as a Project Manager at Albany Bahamas, reflecting the drive and dedication Teresa instilled in her family.
As a grandmother, Teresa’s love and warmth extended to Jaya, Ashton, Khyri, and Jamir. She embraced her role with boundless affection, creating cherished memories and offering guidance that enriched their lives.
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Cherished memories will forever linger in the hearts of her Husband: Rohn Johnson Sr.; Mother: Joycelyn E. Johnson Armbrister; Daughter: Kara Forbes (Jerome Forbes); Son: Rohn Johnson Jr. (Vernique Johnson); Granddaughter: Jaya Forbes; Grandsons: Ashton, Khyri, and Jamir Johnson; Adopted grandson: DeShawn Williams; Step-sister: Ernestine Armbrister; Ten brothers: Lamon Johnson, Trevor Thompson, Sheldon Bullard Chino Armbrister, Anthony, Patrick, Jeffrey, Brendan, Michael, and Kevin Swaby; Uncles: Reverend Jeffrey Johnson, Kendal Johnson, Brister Johnson (Freeport, Grand Bahama), Everette Johnson and Kevin Eve; Aunts: Andrée Swales (Anchorage, Alaska), Nicole Gibson (Miami, Florida); Aunts-in-law: Sheila Johnson, Franceta Johnson, Desiree Johnson, Faye Johnson, Lola Johnson and Dorothy Eve; Sistersin-law: Preann Thompson, Chanelle Bullard; Nephews: Calvin Grant Jr., Cordero Johnson, Joshua Johnson, Sheldon Bullard Jr, and Zachary Bullard; Nieces: Fraya Grant, Nyasha Wallace, Avery Johnson; Paige Johnson; Trevina Thompson; Phylicia Thompson; Indira Thompson; Zenia Bullard Jernel and Charome Green, and Amia Armbrister; Grandnieces and Grandnephews including: Devonte Mackey, Shaquan Mackey, Jasmine Mackey, Nevaeh Mackey, Queen Nefertiti Severe, Amarion Wallace, Azaria Wallace and Nyasia Wallace, Cordai Johnson, Amari Johnson, Penelope Rolle, Kantara Woodside, Michael Woodside, Roston Munroe, Trenae Munroe, Kiana Sands, Jayden Stubbs, Tristina Roberts, Raziah Bullard, Chadariel Williams; a host of other relatives and friends including: Dr. Larissa Johnson, Dr. Kim Scrivens, Tiffany Johnson Thompson, Lavelle Johnson, Pashalle and Sasha Johnson, Racquel Johnson, Shara Johnson, Keeva Johnson, Kenya, Kacy, Shonell, Candice, Christavia Johnson, Keith Johnson, Lee Marvin Johnson, Dr. Nyrée McDonald, Taja-Jihan Swales, Amanda Johnson Ferguson, Bria Johnson, Tavara Johnson, Cherelle Cartwright, LeMar Hinsey, Xynea Johnson, Knisia Johnson, Toné Johnson, Nickeva Eve-Benjamin, Narissa Penn, Zenaidia and Zonja johnson, Shakira Eve, Christal Eve, Latoya Eve; Marlon Johnson, Ricky Johnson, Damien Johnson, Maceo Johnson; Jamaal Johnson, Jermaine Johnson, Jason, Zandal,and Zuri Johnson, Ayari McDonald, M.B.A., Shirley Adderley and Family, Sheila Duncombe and Family, Eleanor Tinker and Family, Ann, Joy, and Merrilyn Panza, Cornell and Carol Rahming, Kim Butterfield and Family, The Labour Street Community, The Gamble Heights Community, Genevieve Scavella, Deena Kalagias, Paulette Beneby and Family, Samuel Wallace and Family, Velma Forbes and Family, Knight Family, Marty Higgs, Sharan Moss, Dennis, Maxine and Pearlimae Smith, Josephine Miller, Latina Russell, Genesta Bethel, Donna Stuart, James Dean and Family, Virginia Dean and Family, Livingstone Lynes and Family, Department of Labour, Westside Construction, and FNM Bamboo Town Branch. And a host of other relatives and friends too numerous to mention.
We shall miss you so much.
MAY OUR BELOVED GRANDMOTHER, MOTHER, DAUGHTER, SISTER, FRIEND FIND ENTERAL REST IN THE LOVING ARMS OF HER LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST.
Order of Service
Seating of the Family…………………………………………………………….......……………………Mortician and Staff
Parting View………………………………………………………………………………………………Mortician and Staff
Opening Remarks…………………………………………………………………...…………….. Pastor Livingstone Lynes
Moderator…………………………………………………………………………...…………………….Pastor Philip Baker
Congregational Hymn……………………………………………………………………...…… “Great is Thy Faithfulness”
Great is Thy faithfulness,” O God my Father,
Summer and winter, and springtime and harvest, There is no shadow of turning with Thee; Sun, moon and stars in their courses above, Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not
Join with all nature in manifold witness
As Thou hast been Thou forever wilt be. To Thy great faithfulness, mercy and love.
(Chorus)
Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth, Great is Thy faithfulness! Great is Thy faithfulness! Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide; Morning by morning new mercies I see; Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow, All I have needed Thy hand hath provided— Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside! Great is Thy faithfulness! Lord, unto me! Prayer…………..…………………………………………………………………………..…………….. Pastor Philip Baker
1st Scripture Reading… Psalm 90………………………………………………………….Mr. Jerome Forbes (Son-in-law)
Condolences…………………………………………………………………………...……………….Hon Pia Glover- Rolle Minister of Labour and the Public Service of the Bahamas, M.P. Golden Gates
Mrs. Patrenda Russell Brice Senior Deputy Director
Mr. Everette Johnson (uncle)
2nd Scripture Reading…2 Corinthians 5:1-10……………………………………....………Mr. Sheldon Bullard (brother)
Musical Tribute………………………………………………………………………..........…………………Mr. John Evans
Obituary…………………………………………………………………………………………..………To be read in silence
As I Knew Her………………………………………………………….....…..…..……Mrs. Carol Rahming (Family Friend)
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Vice President for Academic Affairs Atlantic College and Theological Seminary
Solo…….………………………………………….……………………………………………Ms. Raquel Johnson (Cousin)
Eulogy……………………………………………….………………………………………………Pastor Livingstone Lynes Voice of the Watchman Evangelistic Association
Prayer for the Family…………………………………………………………………….………………. Pastor Philip Baker
Recessional Hymn…………………………………………………………………..……..….”When We All Get to Heaven”
Sing the wondrous love of Jesus, Let us then be true and faithful, Sing His mercy and His grace. Trusting, serving every day; In the mansions bright and blessèd Just one glimpse of Him in glory He’ll prepare for us a place. Will the toils of life repay.
While we walk the pilgrim pathway, Onward to the prize before us! Clouds will overspread the sky; Soon His beauty we’ll behold; But when travelling days are over, Soon the pearly gates will open; Not a shadow, not a sigh. We shall tread the streets of gold.
(Chorus)
When we all get to Heaven, What a day of rejoicing that will be! When we all see Jesus, We’ll sing and shout the victory!
Graveside Service
IT IS WELL WITH MY SOUL
When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,
My sin, oh, the bliss of this glorious thought! when sorrows like sea billows roll; My sin, not in part but the whole, whatever my lot, thou hast taught me to say, is nailed to the cross, and I bear it no more, It is well, it is well with my soul. praise the Lord, praise the Lord, O my soul!
Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come, And, Lord, haste the day when my faith shall be sight, let this blest assurance control the clouds be rolled back as a scroll; that Christ has regarded my helpless estate, the trump shall resound, and the Lord shall descend And hath shed His own blood for my soul. Even so, it is well with my soul
(Chorus)
It is well, it is well, With my soul, with my soul, It is well; it is well, with my soul.
There will be a happy meeting in heaven I know
GLAD REUNION DAY
There within the holy city we’ll sing and rejoice, When we see the many loved ones we’ve known here below. Praising Christ the blessed Saviour with heart and with voice. Gather on the blessed hilltops with hearts all aglow. Tell him how we came to love Him and make Him our choice. That will be a glad reunion day. That will be a glad reunion day.
(Chorus)
When we live a million years in that wonderful place Glad day, a wonderful day, Basking in the love of Jesus, beholding His face. Glad day, a glorious day; It will seem but just a moment of praising His grace. There with all the holy angels That will be glad reunion day. and loved ones to stay, That will be a glad reunion day.
ITS ALRIGHT NOW
There was a time I travelled a lonely sinful road; A’ down a lonely pathway, without a friend to guide, Beneath a heavy burden bending low; I walked in sin and sorrow all alone But now all things are different, since Jesus took my load ‘Till Jesus came and found me, and drew me to His side; It’s alright now, I’m His I know. It’s alright now, for I’m His own.
(Chorus)
It’s alright now, for I am in my Saviour’s care
No more in sin I wander, no more in darkness roam It’s alright now; my Saviour hears and answers prayer The Lord has placed my feet on higher ground; He’ll walk with me, (He’ll walk beside me) Each day new heights I’m gaining, my soul is nearing home, Till I climb the heavenly stair, It’s alright now, I’m heaven bound. And everything (And everything is alright now)
TRIBUTE TO MYMother
In loving memory of my incredible mother, who embodied love and strength. You always encouraged me to be my best, no matter the circumstances, and taught me to stand tall despite life’s toughest challenges. You were my rock, my first call whenever I faced a big decision, always offering wisdom and comfort. Her love extends beyond just me; a devoted grandmother, showering her grandchildren with the same love and care that shaped my life. Her legacy of love, strength, and unwavering support will forever guide us. Mummy, will miss those
A Mother’s Love
daily calls, sending you flowers, and getting all the things you saw and just wanted. Love you more and more every day you will be greatly missed. Kara, myself and your grandkids will continue to keep your legacy. God knew I needed my personal angel so his will has been done.
“Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: ‘Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.’”
— Proverbs 31:28-29
Your one and only son Lil Rohn
A mother’s love is something that no one can explain, It is made of deep devotion and of sacrifice and pain. It is endless and unselfish and enduring come what may’
For nothing can destroy it on take that love away. It is patient and forgiving when all others are forsaking, And it never fails or falters even though the heart is breaking, It believes beyond believing when the world around condemns and it glows with all the beauty of the rarest brightest gems. It is far beyond defining, it defies all explanation
And it still remain a secret like the mysteries of creation, A many-splendored miracle man cannot understand.
And another wondrous evidence of God’s tender guiding hand
Mummy we love and we thank God for the precious years He had blessed us with you.
The children and grandchildren
TERESA RAMONA JOHNSON -
A Tribute to My
Mother
My mother was my greatest inspiration. Her unwavering support and wisdom shaped my path and filled my life with meaning and direction. Her love was a guiding light that illuminated my way, providing strength and clarity in every decision I faced.
In the face of challenges, especially during her courageous battle with cancer, her strength and grace were extraordinary. She faced every obstacle with remarkable dignity, leaving a legacy of resilience and hope.
Though her absence is profoundly felt and the void she leaves is immense, her legacy is a testament to the boundless love she poured into her family. Her devotion to her grandchildren was especially remarkable. The way she loved them unconditionally and with such joy is a beautiful reminder of the incredible person she was. Her influence on their lives will continue to be felt for generations to come.
In these moments of grief, I find comfort in the words of Psalm 48:14: “For this God is our God forever and ever; he will be our guide even to the end.” This scripture reassures me that, even in her absence, she is guided and cherished in the embrace of God. Her spirit, her love, and her faith continue to guide and uplift us.
Though we miss her dearly, her legacy of love and inspiration remains a guiding light in our lives. Rest peacefully, Mummy. You are no longer in pain, and the heavenly gates have opened for you. Your love and guidance will forever be a part of us all, cherished and remembered with deep gratitude and affection.
Your loving daughter
Kara Forbes
My Friend and Confidant
T is for her tenacious attitude towards life
E is for the exuberance that she exuded and maintained on good and bad days
R is for her radiant, beauty inside out
E is for her strong work and civic ethics that she did with excellence and integrity and without fear or favour
S is for the strengths that she displayed in her beliefs as a mother, friend, employee etc
A is for her ardent persona that made her the woman that she was
Sleep on my friend
You will always be in my memory
Your friend, confidant and prayer mother
Donna Stuart Intercessor
A Message To The Best Nana In The World
A light from our family is gone
A voice we loved is silenced
A place is vacant in our home
Which never can be filled
We have to mourn the loss of a great nana
We would love to keep
But God who surely loves her best
Has sadly brought her to Him
After a lifetime of her love, joy And music to fill our ears
God leaves these wonderful memories
To help me get through my tears
On Friday, August 9, 2024, I received devastating news: my beloved nana had left this earth. It felt unreal, and I broke into tears, reflecting on the wonderful memories we shared. Every Christmas Eve, my cousin, brother, and I would go to her house to make gingerbread cookies, and she always baked my favorite cheesecake for my birthday. Nana was incredibly patient and supportive, helping me with my Spanish homework even when she was busy.
Tribute to My Nana
My Nana was the best Nana in the whole universe. I had the incredible privilege of living with her for half of my life, and those years were filled with cherished memories. She taught me how to bake and shared countless life lessons that have shaped who I am today.
Nana was a significant part of my life, and the memories we created together are treasures I will hold forever. From the moment we started baking treats side by side, our kitchen adventures became a cherished tradition. The joy of decorating the Christmas tree with her every year made the holidays even more special. Nana also introduced me to the love of animals. When she brought home my first cat at just three years old, it sparked a lifelong affection for these wonderful creatures. Whether it was drawing and sipping tea during visits to her office, or watching our favorite movies together, every moment with Nana was filled with love and joy.
I cherished our conversations when she picked me up from school, and she was a guiding force in my life, teaching me how to read and spell. Every summer, she would call us to prepare for school shopping, buying everything we needed, followed by a special meal. She often talked about her upcoming retirement, but sadly, she never got to see that day.
My life will not be the same without her. I won’t be able to rub her feet, hear her call for me, or visit her at work with a big Mother’s Day basket. I didn’t get to say my final goodbye, but I promise to visit her grave every Christmas, Mother’s Day, and her birthday. I will strive to make her proud and carry her love with me. I still can’t believe that the best nana is gone.
Your oldest grandson Ashton Johnson
The love I had for her was immense, and my heart shattered when I learned of her passing. I loved her deeply, and the void she leaves behind is profound. Though my heart aches with her absence, I find solace knowing she is in a better place, surrounded by happiness and comfort. I cherish the memory of the hug she gave me the last time I saw her before she went to the hospital. I didn’t know it would be our last embrace, but I hold that moment close to my heart and will forever treasure it.
I wish more than anything to hug her one more time. Her memory will always be a part of me, and I will love and miss her deeply for the rest of my life.
Her presence in my life was a constant source of comfort and happiness. I’ll love her forever and ever, holding onto the warmth of our shared moments. As Matthew 5:4 reminds us, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.”
Rest in peace, Nana. Your memory will forever be a part of my heart.
With all my love, Jaya Forbes (granddaughter)
I will always love you J
It all started in April 2006, when my employment commenced with the department as the receptionist. You would often sit in the booth with me and share many stories about your employment.
As time progressed, I moved into the inspection unit where we shared an office for several years. Our relationship blossomed from co-workers to friends, and eventually, to you calling me your adopted daughter.
Thank you for all the training, the love that you constantly showed, the support and encouragement when my dad passed, and oh ....... let me not forget, the scolding you gave when I got out of hand.
J, you always took the time to make my heart feel light, with words like “Daughter I’m so proud of you” or whenever I encountered difficult times, you reminded me that everything would be OK.
Our daily mantra became:
Watch your thoughts; they become words.
Watch your words; they become actions.
Watch your actions; they become habits.
Watch your habits; they become character. Watch your character; it becomes your destiny.
In July, had I known that would’ve been my last few days with you, I would’ve said I love you more and stayed much longer than I did.
J, you have fought the good fight, you have finished the race, and you have kept the faith. You did your best and gave your all, so now it is your time to take your rest.
Your Sharan
To My ‘First’ First Cousin
“During our conversations, you would often remind me of a Maya Angelou quote: ‘When people show you who they are, believe them.” I believe you loved me, and I know I will miss you.
Dr. Nyrée McDonald
