A new beginning occurred for Ezekiel and Marie Evans- and the world- on March 3, 1933, in Columbus, Georgia, when Dorothy Louise Evans was born. Though officially recorded on March 7, her family celebrated March 3 for 93 years. The youngest of four brothers and one sister, she now joins them in eternal rest.
Faith, family, and learning were planted deeply in Dorothy’s heart. She was baptized young at Antioch Baptist Church where she grew as a dedicated member of the church school and choir. Members of Columbus’ East Highland community, Claflin School, and Spencer High School also watered those early seeds, helping her become a woman who added beauty to the lives of others through encouragement, generosity, and care.
Dorothy delighted in God’s creation, especially flowers and children. She loved reading, travel, and the arts. After finishing public school in 1952, she began anew by joining the Women’s Army Corps, serving honorably for two years as a medical technician in a hospital nursery. At Fort Dix, New Jersey, she met fellow soldier and soulmate Hillard Johnson.
On October 23, 1955, Dorothy and Hillard began a 65-year marriage rooted in Christ, love and dreams. Their union blessed them with two children, and after many travels, the family planted their home in Columbus, Georgia and extended their family by joining Liberty Hill Baptist Church where Dorothy served in the church school, youth programs and choir.
In her children’s early years, Dorothy tended them with quiet strength, giving them nourishment to bloom. As they grew, she modeled faith, purpose and preparation while resuming her education. She completed the Business Education Program at Columbus Technical College, building on studies begun at Albany State College after her military service. Dorothy later returned to the workforce and served with distinction at the Muscogee County Courthouse and the U.S. Army Infantry Center at Ft. Benning, Georgia.
After Hillard retired from the military, they fulfilled their dream of building a house for their family. It was filled with memories from their travels along with Dorothy’s gifts for decorating, planting, cooking, and hospitality. Under her signature touch, the house blossom into a home where she and Hillard shared more than 40 years until his transition in 2021.
Dorothy peacefully entered eternal rest on August 31, 2026, in the family home, comforted by God’s presence and her daughter’s care. She is survived by her son, Fredrick and his wife, Carol; her daughter, Felicia; and many extended family members and friends across the United States.
The Homegoing Celebration for Ms. Johnson will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at 11:00 am graveside at Evergreen Memorial Garden. The service will be live-streamed (see clickable link below)
Visitation will be Friday from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m.
Progressive Funeral Home staff considers it an honor and a privilege to serve the Family of Dorothy Louise Johnson.
Send flowers to the service of Dorothy Louise Evans Johnson
Radiant Foliage Planter was sent for Dorothy Louise Evans Johnson - September 03, 2026
We are thinking of you during this difficult time. Our heart goes out to you and family..from Gloria, Sanginirio, Marvin S.,Minelli Radney, Kimberly Tarver and families.
Heavenly Heights Bouquet was sent for Dorothy Louise Evans Johnson - September 03, 2026
May God comfort you and your family during this time. The great memories of her will always be with us. From Phyllis Johnson and family with love
It was such a pleasure to get to know you Mrs. Dorothy. I will always cherish the moment when I first met you, the meaningful conversations and laughter we had, you've been so strong and I know that God has you in his arm right now. Rest In Power Mrs. Dorothy.
Felicia, your mom always made me laugh whenever I came around. She was so kind and sweet! I'll always remember the times with her and your father in the family room! Precious memories for sure. Too many to write, but do know you are always in my heart! May God of the Universe continue to watch over you and keep your families safe! Love ya, The Abdul-Mateen Family ( Covington, Ga.)
IN REMEMBRANCE OF MY AUNT DOT: KNOWN TO ME AS THE WOMAN WITH JOY IN HER MOUTH AND LOVE IN HER HEART.
SHE SPOKEN MY NAME IN HER DISTINCTIVE SOUTHERN DRAWL, SLIGHTLY HIGH PITCHED, VOLUMINOUS VOICE, WITH TREMBLING LIPS FRAMING HER SMILE. ROSILYN, SHE'D SAY, "YOUR ARE GETTING FAT" WITH GOOD HEALTHY LAUGHTER TO FOLLOW.
SHE TAUGHT ME TO USE THE WASHING MACHINE WHEN CLEANING LARGE QUANTITIES OF COLLARDS GREENS, WHICH LEFT THEM CLEAN AND CHOPPED.
SHE WAS ALWAYS IMPECCABLY DRESSED FOR PUBLIC AND RELAXED AT HOME IN HER MOOMOOS.
I REMEMBER HER UNMISTAKABLE LOVE & DEVOTION FOR MY UNCLE HILL, KNOWN AS HER "JOHNSON". I WANTED A LOVE LIKE THEIRS. AND I BELIEVE THEY ARE REUNITED ONCE MORE IN THE ETERNITY.
MAY THE LORD JESUS SHINE HIS PERPETUAL LIGHT UPON YOU AND GIVE YOU HIS PEACE. IN THE ONLY NAME UNDER HEAVEN BY WHICH MAN MAY BE SAVED, JESUS THE CHRIST. AMEN!