Johnie Evans Winfrey was born on December 31, 1939 to the late James Pierce Evans and Lucille Watkins Evans. She was raised in Forsyth, Georgia where she was baptized at the St James Baptist Church. Johnie received her primary and secondary education in that community. After completing high school, she enrolled at the Tuskegee Institute in Alabama.

In 1959, Johnie met Robert Winfrey, a musician from Atlanta. They were married in 1961 and through the instrumentality of friends subsequently moved to Lynchburg, Viginia. Johnie attended many programs that her husband performed in. While in Virginia, Johnie and Robert became the parents of two sons: Robert Scott Winfrey and Peter Winfrey.

After their time in Virginia, Johnie, Robert and the boys moved to Boston, Massachusetts. For a while she was a stay-at-home mom and volunteered as a monitor for Peter’s school bus.

As the children grew older, Johnie enrolled in Boston College where she completed bachelor’s and master’s degrees. At that time, she was also employed at Boston College as a librarian. She worked at that institution for twenty-five years and retired in 2012.

Johnie was a quiet, soft-spoken lady with the gift of nurturing. She taught Sunday School at Mattapan Baptist Church for several years. She was able to communicate with the children regardless of their age or ability. The children loved Mrs. Winfrey, and she loved them in return. She loved the outdoors and was an avid gardener. She also enjoyed shopping. Her favorite stores were Building19 and Job Lot.

Johnie leaves to mourn: her husband of 63 years - Robert Winfrey; her sons Scott and Peter; three granddaughters: Vivienne and Alonza of Massachusetts and Cinnamon of Rochester, NY other relatives and friends. May her soul rest in peace.

Funeral Service at Mattapan Baptist Church, 587 Eliot Street, Milton, Saturday January 18 at 11:00 AM. Family and friends invited. A viewing will be prior to the service from 10-11 am at the church. Burial Westview Cemetery, Atlanta, GA.