05/25/2026
Grace White Johnson, known as Mrs. Grace, passed away on May 23, 2026, at McLeod Hospice House in Florence, South Carolina, at the age of 98.
Born on December 30, 1927, in Berkeley County, South Carolina, she was the daughter of William Ezra White and Susan Edna Harris White. She was also lovingly raised by her stepmother, Vivian Newton White, who cared for her as her own. Grace lived a long and meaningful life marked by faith, devotion to family, and a generous spirit that touched many lives.
Grace was preceded in death by her parents, her stepmother, her husbands, Sweeney Altman, Ezra Eaddy, and Garman Johnson, and her beloved daughter, Robin A. Gates. She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Lois Atkinson and Catherine Newton Wiles, and her brothers, Donald W. White and James L. White. Her life was shaped by deep family ties, and she carried those bonds with her throughout her years.
She is survived by her three children, Ardith Koon, Avery Lee Altman, and Clyce Atwood (Brian). She also leaves behind six grandchildren, Kimberly Herring (Chris), Kelli K. Jernigan, Brandon Altman, Staci Gates, Richie Shanahan (Christina), and Haley Mozonski (Mike). Her legacy continues through eight great-grandchildren, Austin T. Jernigan, Ayden T. Jernigan, Asher T. Jernigan, Grayson C. Herring, Gage C. Herring, Kali Reed, Morgan Rynes, and Emma Shanahan. In addition, she is survived by her sister, Esther McGlamery, her brothers, David White and Warren White (Harriet), her sister-in-law, Betty White, and many nieces and nephews who loved her dearly.
Grace attended Emmanuel College in Franklin Springs, Georgia, where she studied education. She later began a remarkable 35-year teaching career that reflected her patience, dedication, and love for children. She first taught fourth and fifth grades at Vox School and later taught first and second grades at Johnsonville Elementary. While teaching, she earned a teacher certificate from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor of Science degree from Francis Marion University, becoming part of its first graduating class. Her work in the classroom left a lasting impression on generations of students and families.
After retiring from teaching, Grace continued to live a life of purpose and service. She followed her calling by completing 50 mission trips, traveling to between 20 and 30 countries around the world. Working alongside a team, she shared the love of Christ in orphanages, churches, hospitals, and prisons. Her faith was not only spoken but lived, and her compassion reached far beyond her own community. She was known as a woman who gave freely of herself and who found joy in serving others.
Grace also enjoyed the simple pleasures of life. She loved working in her garden and tending to flowers, and she had a special appreciation for antiquing, often traveling far and wide in search of treasured finds. She loved to quilt, creating with her hands in ways that reflected her patience and care. These interests brought her joy and were a reflection of her creative and adventurous spirit.
Funeral services will be at 3:00 PM, Thursday, May 28, 2026, at New Vision Free Will Baptist Church, 2616 South State Highway, Hemingway, SC 29554. Officiating will be Rev. David Owens from Beulah Baptist Church, her adopted church that sponsored her on many of her mission trips. Burial will be private.
A visitation for family and friends will be held prior to the service from 2:00 to 3:00 PM at New Vision Free Will Baptist Church, 2616 South State Highway, Hemingway, SC 29554.
Online condolences may be left at www.young-fh.com.
Young Funeral Home of Hemingway is in charge of the arrangements. (843) 933-4262
