In Loving Memory of Mary Alice Johnson Hawthorne

July 25, 1935 – September 12, 2025 • Age 90

Mary Alice Johnson Hawthorne, 90, transitioned peacefully at home on September 12, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. Born on July 25, 1935, Mary was the beloved daughter of the late Elnora Johnson Smith. Her life was marked by quiet strength, unwavering faith, and a devotion to family that anchored every season of her 90 remarkable years.

Mary’s warmth made every room gentler; her counsel was steady and kind. She cherished simple joys—time with family, shared meals, stories retold, and the comfort of familiar traditions. Those who knew her will remember her generous heart, gentle humor, and the way she made each person feel seen and loved.

Mary graduated in 1955 from Southside High School, Dinwiddie, Virginia. After graduating, she moved to New York City, where she worked for New York Telephone Company for over 30 years.  On her retirement in 1988 she moved to North Port, Florida where she and her husband, Ovan enjoyed retirement.  Mary was active in the community and served faithfully for many decades at the former South Biscayne Baptist church now known as Fellowship Church South Biscayne.

Mary is survived by Derek Hawthorne (son), Ian Hawthorne (son) Lee Hawthorne, Ryan Hawthorne grandson, Mia Hawthorne (great-grand daughter) James Johnson (brother), Cassondre Smith (loving sister), and a devoted niece Lisa Holloway (Glenn),  nephews Reshad Johnson (Christie), Algie Smith, Tristian Smith, Wilbur Tucker Jr., Morris Stith Jr. (Ashley) and a host of relatives and friends who will carry her legacy forward. She is preceded in death by her mother, Elnora (Johnson) Smith, and her loving husband of 47 years Ovan Hawthorne, Albert Johnson (brother), Frances Tucker (sister).

The family sincerely appreciates the outpouring of love, prayers, and support during this time of loss. While attendance at the burial is private, friends are invited to remember Mary in their own way—through prayer, cherished memories, or simple acts of kindness in her honor.

In lieu of flowers, the family welcomes donations in Mary’s memory to a charity of your choice and/or the offering of an act of kindness in her honor.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to everyone who supported Mary with love and care, especially in her final days at home.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”May Mary’s memory be a blessing, and may her love continue to guide us.