Johnnie Mae Cleveland

Johnnie Mae Butts Cleveland the cherished matriarch of her family and beloved pillar of the Winter Park, Florida community, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2024, at the age of 96. Born on November 29, 1927, in Sanford, Florida. Johnnie Mae was known for her warmth, generosity, and unwavering commitment to her family and community. On April 5, 1942, she married her childhood neighbor, William Alfred Cleveland, Sr., in Winter Park, Fl. Together they built a life filled with love and devotion, sharing 62 beautiful years of marriage until William’s passing in 2004. As a dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, and friend, Johnnie Mae found immense joy in caring for her loved ones. Her nurturing spirit was ever present, and she was known for feeding both body and soul, creating a legacy of love that will live on in the hearts of many. Throughout her life, Johnnie Mae led with unshakable strength, grace, wisdom, and love. She was admired for her fearless spirit, honesty, and her ability to guide others with a balance of firmness and compassion. Her legendary cooking brought family and friends together who eagerly looked forward to the delicious meals she lovingly prepared, especially during holidays and Sunday dinners. Johnnie Mae’s table was always open, offering not just a meal but a sanctuary of love, support, and kindness to all who entered her home. In retirement, Johnnie Mae continued to care for her family with quiet dedication, ensuring that those she loved received unwavering support. Accepting Jesus Christ at an early age, her faith in God was her foundation, and guided her through life’s challenges with grace and dignity. A lifelong member of Mt. Moriah Missionary Baptist Church, Johnnie Mae faithfully served the congregation for 75 years through the Usher Board, Junior Women, the Hospitality Committee, and as Culinary Leader for over five decades. Her contributions extended beyond the church to her community where she was active in the Ideal Woman’s Club, the Auxiliary of The Gardens at the DePugh Nursing Center, and the Winter Park Community Seniors. In recognition of her civic contributions Johnnie Mae was honored by the Sage Project Phase II, where she shared her story as one of the Hannibal Square elders. Her legacy was celebrated through portraits and oral histories that paid tribute to the African American west side of Winter Park. The Hannibal Square Heritage Center, operated by Crealdé School of Arts in partnership with the City of Winter Park, Fl. continues to honor her and others from this historic community. . Johnnie Mae is survived by her children: Willie Mae Means of Winter Park, Fl, William Alfred Jr. (Harriett) Cleveland of Gaffney, SC, Lawrence (Jacqueline) Cleveland of Pittsburg, TX, Tresa Cleveland of Winter Park, Fl, Eric (Dee) Cleveland of Mt. Juliet, TN, and her adopted granddaughter, Ashley Nicole Cleveland of Winter Park, Fl. She leaves behind nine grandchildren: Keith (Kwani) Woods, William A. III (Angie) Cleveland, Valerie (JayTee) Tucker, Patrick (Dr. Renee) Cleveland, Josiah Morris, Jahni Morris, Eric Jr. Cleveland, Joseph (Timbrel) Carson; ten great-grandchildren: Brittney (Devonte) Norwood, Hope Woods, Faith Woods, Jonathan Tucker, Jameson Tucker, Aaron Cleveland, Miles Cleveland, Emir Cleveland, Ethan Carson, and Zachary Carson. She is also survived by her sisters, Dorcas Morris, and Jestine Long and adopted brother Bishop G.E. Butts. Johnnie Mae had two adopted granddaughters, Jade and Jayla Long. She was preceded in death by her husband, William Cleveland Sr., son, Joseph Cleveland, and granddaughter, Eryn Cleveland. Beyond her deep love for her family, Johnnie Mae found great joy in life’s simple pleasures. She was an exceptional cook who loved spending time in the kitchen, shopping, playing bingo and dominoes, and took pride in decorating her home. Her creativity extended to arts and crafts, crossword puzzles, and designing elegant table settings that added beauty to her surroundings. The impact she had on those who knew her is immeasurable. Her strength, endless love, and steadfast faith will continue to inspire and guide her family for generations. While her presence will be deeply missed, her legacy of love, service, and community will remain forever.

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Johnnie Mae Cleveland

November 29, 1927 - September 17, 2024