October 12, 1943 - October 12, 2012

Mary Birdsong Johnson was born in Roanoke Rapids, NC on October 12, 1943, the daughter of Jesse James “Jake” and Novella Butler Birdsong. She entered into eternal rest on Friday October 12, 2012. She was preceded in death by her parents and her siblings Jesse Birdsong, Jr. and Shirley B. Hill.

Those left to cherish her memories are her children, Tracy and James Shelburne of Littleton, and James  (Buck) Johnson Jr. of the home; her siblings Edwin Gerald “Butch” and Vivian “Bibs” Birdsong of Roanoke Rapids; her grandchildren Chris Johnson of Littleton, Casey Johnson of Manteo, Jayme Shelburne and Jessica and Chris Woodruff of Roanoke Rapids; her great-grandchildren Jesse, Jacob, Adam, and Taylor Woodruff of Roanoke Rapids; her special mother-in-law Mary F. Johnson of Roanoke Rapids; and many special nieces and nephews.

Ms. Johnson worked for many years in the mills of Roanoke Rapids, and spent her retirement years as a caregiver to friends and family. She was a talented artist of oil paints, yarn, and thread who could make anything with her own two hands. She was an avid reader and a skilled fisherwoman of the lakes and ocean. In her time on this earth, she touched the hearts of many and will be missed.

Graveside services will be held 4:00 P.M. Sunday, October 14, 2012 at Crestview Memorial Cemetery with CLM Nelson High officiating.  The family will receive friends Saturday, October 13, 2012 from 7:00 - 9:00 P.M. at Hockaday Funeral and Cremation Service and other times at the home of James and Tracy Shellburne at 206 Crosswinds Lane in Littleton.

In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to the St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or to a charity of your choice.

Online condolences may be made at www.hockadayfs.com.