Mrs. Johnnie Mae Marable

Mother Johnnie Mae Jackson Marable was born September 6, 1924, to the late Will and Sireatha Washington Jackson. She and her sisters were lovingly reared in the home of their grandparents, John and Emma (Gosier) Washington after their mother passed at a very early age. Johnnie Mae understood at a very early age the power of the Holy Spirit. This influenced her behavior as a child and kept her humble and obedient, even into adulthood.
 
Mother Johnnie Mae Marable, known lovingly by her family as MuDear, peacefully entered into the embrace of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ Tuesday, October 10, 2023 with her daughter, Linda, and faithful caregiver, Ms. Wanda, by her side.
 
Johnnie Mae received her education from Brooks County Training School in Dixie, Georgia. After graduation, she attended Albany State College for a year. At an early age, she joined Simmon Hill Missionary Baptist Church and remained a devoted and faithful member throughout her life. She was inspired by Gracie and Maurice Wooten to become actively involved in Sunday School. Mother Marable’s dedication to her church was unwavering. She took advantage of every opportunity to serve in any capacity needed. She sang with the senior choir, worked as a deaconess, served as financial secretary, organized the scholarship committee, and assisted with the missionary department. She continued to worship until the first Sunday in April of this year, April 2, 2023; this was her last Sunday in attendance. As a member and Mother of the Church, Mother Marable remained committed to the sustainability and continued growth of the church. She spoke highly of her church and always promoted support for it. She often reminded her family of the importance of returning home to the community she loved so dearly.
 
On August 15, 1946, Johnnie Mae married the love of her life, Ulysses Marable, Sr. They purchased a farm in Dixie, Georgia in 1949 and built a life there. They were very active in the Simmon Hill community. Johnnie Mae’s commitment to and concern for her community paralleled the affection she had for her church. She served as the PTA treasurer for many years at Simmon Hill Elementary School, where her children attended. She clothed and fed her community as she did her children. She worked tirelessly for the betterment of Simmon Hill. She enjoyed fellowship with other ladies in the community through various organizations like the Busy Bee Savings Club. She understood the importance of participating in the political process. She voted in every election held and volunteered as a poll worker. Johnnie Mae advocated for the education of all children. She encouraged the youth at church and in the community to strive for the best education they
could receive. She reminisced about how she wanted to receive a college degree. That propelled her to ensure that all of her children received an education. That encouragement and support extended to her grandchildren. She never missed a graduation.
 
Ulysses, called Bud, and Johnnie Mae enjoyed farming and raising livestock. They, along with their children, worked very hard. This provided a livelihood for their family. They were successful because of that united effort along with the support of a large community of workers and helpers who became their friends. Bud and Johnnie Mae were a loving couple, caring parents, and actively involved in the community.
 
Johnnie Mae was a Life Member of Lovejoy Chapter No. 246 Order of the Eastern Star. She joined on January 4, 1963, and remained a member for over 60 years. She remained active even at the age of 99. She was an affiliate of Valdosta District No.9 where she held the position of secretary for many years and several of the star point positions.
 
Johnnie Mae loved interacting with her friends at the Senior Citizen Center. She waited patiently for the bus to transport her to the place where she enjoyed the company of her friends. Her family and friends knew of her love for BINGO. Johnnie Mae also made it a habit to call and check on her friends.
 
MuDear was preceded in death by her husband, Ulysses Marable Sr., daughter Gail Christain, grandson DeWayne Adams, and granddaughter Anika Marable. Her sisters, Willie Mae Bryant and Mabel Spencer, whom she loved so greatly also preceded her in death.
 
A woman of great love and devotion, MuDear was an exceptional mother to her children. Her care and affection created a nurturing and loving environment that shaped their lives. She leaves behind a legacy of love and beautiful memories for her five daughters and four sons: Sherrie Hall (Benny) of Charlotte, North Carolina; Linda Gosier (Thomas) of Dixie, Georgia; Ulysses Marable, Jr. (Jackie) of Dixie, Georgia; Sylvia Adams (Billy) of Blakley, Georgia; Barbara Holder (Eddie) of Jacksonville, North Carolina; Dr. Michael Marable (Sharon) of Valdosta, Georgia; Dr. Lawrence Marable (Gloria) of Macon, Georgia; Dr. Stanley Marable (Corrie) of Valdosta, Georgia; and Ronda Carson (Reginald) of Charlotte, North Carolina. Additionally, she is survived by a granddaughter, Dr. Dawnyetta Hixson (Eric), who was reared in the home as the eleventh child. Her 33 grandchildren, 55 great-grandchildren, and sole great-great-great-grandchild will carry her legacy. She was blessed to witness five generations. There is profound gratitude for those who assisted in her care. You will always be remembered in our thoughts. We believe that as her nieces, nephews, cousins, church family, and friends you will always hold a special place in your hearts for her. Mother Johnnie Mae Jackson Marable's memory will forever live in the hearts and minds of those who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy of faith, love, and dedication to family and community will continue to inspire and guide us.

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