Mrs. Thelma C. Johnson was born September 24, 1938, in Smithville, GA to the late Elder and Jimmie Lee Daniels Champion. She was proceeded in death by her sisters; Jenniel & Evelyn Champion, brothers; George Champion, Ray and Andrew Daniels. Thelma was married to the late Johnnie Johnson Jr. of Terrell County.

Thelma was a 1956 graduate of Staley High School in Americus, Ga. She was a graduate of Albany Vocational (Albany Technical College) where she received a certificate in Custom Dress Making and Fashion Design and was later chosen as head fashion designer for SWGA. Many knew her as the best seamstress and custom dress maker around and knew she took pride in perfection of her skills. Throughout her career, Thelma was a seamstress for Sears, Martin's Men's Wear, Oxford Street and Phillip's Men Clothing, retiring in 2000. Because of being in such high demand, Thelma decided to come out of retirement and do what she loved to do until she officially retired from Phillip's Men's Clothing in Feb. 2020.

Thelma was always ready for new adventures, and she traveled the world whether it be by boat, airplane or vehicle. As a matter of fact she always kept a suitcase in the trunk of her car just in case. Under the leadership of Pastor Lorenzo L. Heard, Thelma was an active member of the Greater Second Mt. Olive Church where she sang in the choir and was active in many other ministries. With her wisdom, kind heart, beautiful smile, humorous personality she captured the hearts of many whom she encountered.

Thelma leaves to cherish her memories to her five children whom she loved dearly; three sons: Johnnie (Robin), Yaz (Brenda) and Ron; two daughters: Melissa (Kennedy) and Pamela (David); twenty four grandchildren and thirteen great grands; five sisters: Lois C. Price, Ola C. Dawsey, Barbara C. Mitchell, Carolyn C. Mallory all of Albany and Myrtice C. Johnson of Macon, GA and one brother: James Champion of Smithville, GA; five sister-in-laws, a host of nieces and nephews and other relatives, friends.