Lillie Marie Johnson was born on October 25, 1953, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, to James A. Garfield Gilliam, Sr., and Earnesteen (Sanders) Gilliam. She was the seventh of twelve children. Growing up in the Jim Crow South, Lillie attended an all-Black school and was actively involved in sports, excelling in volleyball, basketball, and softball. In 1970, at the age of 16, Lillie moved to California to live with her elder sister, Elve. She attended John F. Kennedy High School, where she graduated in 1971. Lillie’s dedication to education continued as she later attended Contra Costa College, earning a degree in Registered Nursing, and Chapman University, where she received a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science. She also pursued further studies at St. Mary’s College, Oakland Bay City College, and Light University.

Nursing Career
Lillie’s nursing career spanned over thirty years with Kaiser Permanente Medical Group and Kaiser Foundation Hospital, where she worked in various units including Medical Surgical, Intensive Care, and Cardiac Care. She also served as a pediatric advice nurse, instructor, and trainer, and held leadership roles in the Regional Leadership Committee and community outreach teams. Lillie was instrumental in organizing the first occupational medical worker’s compensation clinic at Kaiser Richmond and managed multiple departments simultaneously. Her management skills earned her numerous awards and accolades, including a plaque for “Best Manager” upon her retirement.

Church Involvement
Lillie was deeply involved in church activities throughout her life. From her childhood in Mississippi, attending Evergreen Baptist Church, to her active participation at North Richmond Missionary Baptist Church in California, where she served as a Sunday school teacher, church announcer, and more. In 1988, Lillie and her children joined Berkeley Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church (BMZ), where she served in various roles, including women’s choir member, Sunday school teacher, Women’s Ministry President, Senior Ministry Director, Prayer Ministry participant, and Women’s Ministry Advisor. She was honored with the Charlie Langford Integrity Award for her dedication and service.

Family Life
Lillie was a devoted mother to her three children, Candra, James, and Chandra. She worked multiple jobs to ensure her children received a Christian private school education and instilled in them the importance of spiritual and academic balance. Her pride in her children’s accomplishments was evident, as they all became college-educated and successful in their careers.

Legacy
Lillie Johnson’s legacy is marked by her unwavering commitment to her family, church, and profession. She was known for her honesty, transparency, and ability to provide comfort and counsel to those around her. Lillie leaves behind her children, grandchildren, siblings, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Her memory will be cherished by all who knew her.