Ellen Jane Craig Johnson

With a heavy heart, yet filled with joyous memories, we celebrate the blessed life of Sister Ellen Jane Craig Johnson, affectionately known as Janie to all who knew her.  Born on the 16th day of January in the year of our Lord 1935, in Indianapolis, IN, she was called to her heavenly home on October 17, 2023.  Her life was a testament to the wisdom of Solomon, the faith of Abraham, and the courage of David. 

     Janie was the beloved daughter of the late William Lester and Julia Sleet Craig, sister to the late James Raymond and William Martin Craig, and was formerly married to the late Robert Johnson.  She was a devoted mother to her daughter, Judith Eileen Johnson, and loving stepmother to the late Lester Weaver.  Her life was blessed with a host of relatives and good friends. 

     Our dear Janie was a proud product of Indianapolis Public School #12, where she received her early education from kindergarten through 8th grade.  She then walked the hallowed halls of Crispus Attucks High School, graduating with the class of 1953.  Janie’s thirst for knowledge and service led her to the School of Practical Nursing, where she graduated in 1965, setting the stage for a remarkable career in nursing. 

     Sister Johnson served the public diligently, first at the Indiana Bureau of Moter Vehicles, then at St. Vincent Hospital as a Nurse’s Aide, and later at Wishard and Methodist Hospitals as a Licensed Practical Nurse.  She retired from the Marion County Health Department as a Public Health Nurse, having dedicated 32 years of her life to the service of others.  Her commitment to the community extended beyond her professional career, as she also worked at the Craig Funeral Home, a family-owned business established by her parents. 

     At the tender age of 12, Janie gave her life to Christ under the pastorate of Rev. V. W. McLawler at South Calvary Missionary Baptist Church.  Her dedication to the Church was evident in her active participation with all youth activities, her service as a Sunday School teacher, tutoring children, her voice in the choir, the culinary committee, and her work on the pastoral search committee (Rev. John W. Woodall, Jr).  Janie was a faithful servant, always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. 

     Beyond her professional and spiritual endeavors, Janie had a zest for life that was truly infectious. She found great joy in sewing, cooking, and traveling.  She had a knack for meeting interesting people and creating long-lasting friendships.  Janie was a confidante to many, always ready with a “listening ear” for friends and their children.

     Ellen Jane Johnson’s memory is loved and cherished today by daughter Judy, and her beautiful friends at Crestwood Village North, South Calvary Missionary Baptist Church along with the staff of Craig & Glazebrooks Funeral Service.  And a host of family members and friends. 

                                                                         -Humbly submitted, the family.

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