April Devece Johnson

April Devece Johnson, affectionately called “Vece” was born July 8, 1966 to Helen and Theodore Johnson in Jacksonville, FL. She was the last of six children. God made her a very special delivery. As a child, she was joyful and loving. Into her young adult years, she was a blessing to her immediate family, extended family and church members and friends. April attended Palm Avenue Exceptional Student Center where she graduated in 1986. She was not a stranger to anyone and even found special favor with a fellow classmate, Larry. Teachers and administrators loved April and she enjoyed the school parties and other celebrations with her classmates. At any time, she would dance to the music of her favorite artist, James Brown. She would even include him in her prayers. Along with her family, April was baptized and expressed her love for God in a unique way. When she felt the need, she would lay hands on anyone who needed prayer and would ask, “Are you alright?” She loved to sing church songs and was willing to do so at any occasion. Local store employees at Winn Dixie and Dollar General, and even strangers, who came in contact with April were touched by her pleasant smile and loving, outgoing spirit. She loved to shop for her favorite things such as Twizzlers, popcorn, and Almond Joy, after she collected a crisp, clean dollar bill from whoever donated it to her. Early Friday, July 17, 2015, while peacefully sleeping, April went home to be with the Lord. She leaves to cherish her memories; a loving and devoted father and mother, Theodore and Helen Johnson; seven siblings, Harry (Helen Nancy) Johnson, Linda Roberts, Martha Johnson, Mildred (Charles) Nicholson, Frieda (Benjamin) Henry, all of Jacksonville, FL, Theodore “Van” Johnson of Panama City, FL, Cedera (David) Newman of Orange Park, FL; Thirteen nieces and nephews: Jamie (Angela) Johnson, Felicia (Vincent) Campbell, Jonathan Johnson, Sherrie Roberts, Samuel “Devane” Roberts, Kindy (Russell) McGowan, Justin Roberts, Iris (Sam)Davidson, Charles Jr. (Kristalyn) Nicholson, Benisha Henry, Danielle Henry, David Jr. (Millicent) Newman, and Andre (Cindy) Newman; more than 30 great nieces and nephews and great-great nieces and nephews; God-sisters, Catherine Theodosia Clayton, Eartha Jackson, and Freddie Matthews; devoted aunts, Cora Johnson and Mae Liza Johnson; special friend, Chris Reed, Wisteria Williams, and Phyllis Matthews, and a host of cousins and friends.