Mary Ann Johnson

Mary Ann Hanson was born on January 5, 1933, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Houston, Texas, and passed way at age 86 on February 8, 2019, in Webster, Texas, surrounded by her loving family at her side. She was born to John Henry and Marie Phillips Hanson. She had 4 siblings, of which she was the youngest. Mary Ann graduated from Incarnate Word Catholic High School in 1951. Her Catholic faith was always very important to her.

Benny Gene Johnson was born on July 4, 1927, in Kershaw, Alabama, and passed away at age 91 on August 9, 2018, in Friendswood, Texas. He was born to James Devro and Ruby Arma Johnson; he had 5 siblings. At age 17, he joined the Merchant Marines and later transferred to the United States Air Force for a total of 7 ½ years. He served in WWII and The Korean War. Ben’s last post was at Ellington Air Field in Houston, Texas, where he met his soon to be bride, Mary Ann Hanson. When his time in the Air Force was complete, he continued to live in Houston and retired from Baker Oil Tools after 37 years.

Ben and Mary Ann were married on December 26, 1952, had five children and celebrated life together for 65 years until Ben’s passing. They are survived by Donna Reichardt, Janice and husband Bobby Birkhead, Rex and wife Valerie Johnson, Byron and wife Jacque Johnson, and Guy and wife Anna Johnson. They will also be forever remembered by their 15 grandchildren, and 7 great-grandchildren.

Mary Ann was a homemaker, dedicated mother and devout Christian. Her sweet disposition and unwavering devotion to her children was also shared with the grandchildren, all of which she loved unconditionally. She cared for and deeply bonded with all the grandchildren during their formative years.

After retirement, Ben spent his days doing the things he enjoyed. He Started his days with a brisk walk, followed by afternoons perfecting his wood-working craft. He also practiced writing music, playing his guitar, and singing country songs. On weekends, he performed with his band at the American Legion Post 490 and the Pasadena Music Club.

The viewing will be held on Tuesday, February 12, from 5-8p.m. at Grand View Funeral Home, 8501 Spencer Hwy, Pasadena, Texas.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in memory of Mary Ann on Wednesday, February 13, at 9:30 a.m. at Saint Frances Cabrini Catholic Church, 10727 Hartsook Street, Houston, Texas. Fr. Reginald Samuels presiding.

The joint burial will take place at 11 a.m. at Forest Lawn Cemetery, 8601 Almeda Genoa Road, Houston, Texas. A reception at St Frances Cabrini will follow.