Mary E. Cato

Mary Delores Elaine Black Johnson Cato, affectionately known as Judy, peacefully went home to be with the Lord on September 10, 2026. She was born on November 4, 1935, in Bristol, Tennessee, to Ethel L. Black Cochran and Ralph Richmond. Mary was lovingly raised by her grandparents, Georgia and Samuel Black, and her aunt, Mary Lee Black Lindsey.

Mary attended the Douglas School System in Bristol, Virginia, where she completed her education. She later continued her studies at Knoxville College, where she prepared for missionary service abroad and pledged Delta Sorority. In 1958, she married George Johnson, and together they relocated first to New York and later to Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. To this union were born two daughters and three sons.

Mary held numerous positions throughout her life before beginning her career with the City of Harrisburg, where she faithfully served for 30 years until her retirement. She was a dedicated and devoted member of St. John CME Church, serving on the Missionary Board, Steward Board, Stewardess Board, Usher Board, and Pastor's Aide Board. She also sang with the Senior Choir and Mass Choir and founded the Card Ministry, whose outreach touched lives around the world. Mary enjoyed painting, crossword puzzles, and, most of all, spending time with her family. She loved and adored all of her grandchildren and great-grandchildren and shared a special bond with Ahsir "Boy Boy" and Tyleak "Bee Bop Dan," who brought her great immense joy.

Mary was preceded in death by her parents; her grandparents; her daughter, Angela Marie; her son, George Edward Jr. "Boobie"; and her aunts, Cleo Hyslop and Mary Lee Lindsey.

Mary's cherished memory will live on in the hearts of her sister, Lillian Elzie (Frank) of California; her three children, Beverly Singleton (Roger), Samuel Johnson, and Ronald Johnson, all of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; and her grandchildren, Aundrey Johnson, whom she helped raise, Milton Taylor Jr., Michael Taylor, Shakera Taylor-Stoney (Eric), Brian Taylor, Nyree Johnson and Noral Taylor (La'Quana), all of Harrisburg; Loren Davis of Pittsburgh, and Tracy Brown of Maryland. She is also lovingly remembered by her devoted nephews, Archie Heath (Sharon) and Mansa Ali; Godson Stacy White; thirty-two great-grandchildren; twelve great-great-grandchildren; special caretakers Yolanda and Aleasia; extended family; and dear friends.

Mary was known as an adoptive mother and grandmother to all who knew her. She welcomed others with warmth, always offering a meal and a place to stay. Those who spent Saturday night in her home knew they would be attending church with her the following morning.

Celebration of Life Services will be held at Hooper Memorial Home, Inc. on Friday, September 18, 2026. 

Viewing at 10:00 a.m., with the service beginning at 11:00 a.m.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.