Deaconess Dorothy Ann Johnson
February 5, 1944 – July 27, 2025

Deaconess Dorothy Ann Johnson, 81, of Winston-Salem, North Carolina, peacefully entered eternal rest on July 27, 2025, at Brookridge Retirement Community, surrounded by her family.

Born on February 5, 1944, in Winston-Salem, NC, Dorothy was the cherished daughter of the late Clinton Lash, Sr. and Annie Bell Lash. She was one of eight siblings and was preceded in death by her brothers, Clinton Lash Jr., Franklin Lash, Raymond Lash, and Bennett Lash, as well as her sisters, Juanita Anderson, Gloria Dean Lash, and Frances Elizabeth Wright. She was also preceded in death by her beloved great-granddaughter, Dallas Marie Allen.

Dorothy was united in holy matrimony to Deacon Samuel William Johnson, her devoted husband of 61 years. Together, they built a strong and faithful family grounded in service to God and to one another. She leaves to cherish her memory one daughter, Tammy Lynette Allen; two loving grandsons, Corey Gregory (Na-Twan Cortrice) Allen and Cameron James Samuel Allen. Her legacy continues through her three great-grandchildren, Denver Mattheus Allen, Shiloh Josiah Allen, and August Immanuel Allen, who brought her immeasurable joy and filled her FaceTime calls with laughter.

Dorothy also shared a special bond with her God-daughter, Evonne Sims. Dorothy was a member of West End Baptist Church as a child before it merged with First Institutional to form United Metropolitan Baptist Church shepherded by Dr James Ballard

A lifelong and faithful member of United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church, Dorothy served on the Deaconess Board and sang with both the Senior and Gospel Choirs for many years. Her love for the Lord was evident in every area of her life, especially in her ministry of kindness, compassion, and spiritual wisdom. She had a quiet, peaceful spirit and a heart for serving others—offering a listening ear, a comforting word, and thoughtful prayers guided by her deep faith.

Dorothy was educated in the Winston-Salem/Forsyth County School System. She found purpose and pride in her work at Bocock Stroud and later at Mrs. Hanes' Handmade Moravian Cookies, where she lovingly crafted the famous treats until her retirement after 35 years of dedicated service.

At home, Dorothy found joy in gardening, nurturing flowers and vegetables with the same gentle care she gave to others. She was also an exceptional cook, known for meals that brought loved ones together and warmed both hearts and stomachs.

In conversation, she often had a twinkle in her eye, a quiet sparkle that made those around her feel seen, heard, and deeply valued. Whether she was listening intently, sharing wisdom, or simply offering her peaceful presence, that twinkle reflected the grace and warmth of her spirit.

Known for her gentle demeanor, warm smile, and unwavering faith, Dorothy touched the lives of many. She will be deeply missed by her nieces, nephews, extended family, and countless friends, all of whom were blessed by her kindness and grace.

A viewing will be held from 1:00pm until 5:00pm Monday, August 4, 2025 at Russell Funeral Home.

A Homegoing Service to celebrate her life will be held at 12noon Tuesday, August 5, 2025 at United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church.  Interment will follow in Piedmont Memorial Gardens. The family visitation will be held from 11:00am until 12noon on Tuesday at the Church. The family invites all who knew and loved Dorothy to join in honoring her remarkable life and legacy.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Reverend Dr. Alvin T Armstead, Jr. and United Metropolitan Church family for their prayers, visits, and thoughtful cards during Dorothy's illness. Special thanks and deep gratitude are also extended to the medical personnel at Novant Health and the staff at Brookridge Retirement Community for their professional and compassionate care.