Clara Estella Roberta Johnson lived a life filled with purpose, guided by faith, and shaped by service. Known for her compassion and dedication, Clara was much more than the daughter of Alberta Richmond and the beloved child of East St. Louis. She was a force in her own right, creating lasting impact through ministry, outreach, and love that still echoes today.
A Foundation Built on Faith and Family
Born on March 24, 1937, in East St. Louis, Illinois, Clara Estella Roberta Johnson grew up in a household that emphasized the value of community, hard work, and spiritual strength. Her parents, John Peal and Alberta Richmond, weren’t famous, but they laid down values that would fuel her lifelong mission of service.
In a home that also included LaWanda Page—best known as Aunt Esther from Sanford and Son—Clara could have easily ventured into showbiz. But her calling was different. While Alberta stepped into the entertainment industry, Clara found her path through evangelism, focusing her energy on serving others and spreading the gospel.
Founding the Clara E. Johnson Evangelistic Association
Clara’s commitment led to the creation of the Clara E. Johnson Evangelistic Association, a nonprofit ministry dedicated to spiritual outreach. Her work spanned across:
- Revival meetings and faith-based seminars
- Gospel crusades at the local and international level
- Community engagement through workshops and prayer groups
Her approach wasn’t flashy—it was real. People connected with her honesty, kindness, and ability to listen. The goal wasn’t celebrity, it was salvation and support.
A Life of Love and Balance
Clara wasn’t just a minister—she was a mother, a wife, and a grandmother. In 1957, she married James Johnson, and together they had a son, James Johnson Jr. Despite her growing responsibilities in ministry, she always made time for her family. Her life was a balance between the pulpit and the dinner table, prayer meetings and bedtime stories.
She endured painful chapters, too. The loss of her mother in 2002 hit hard. And on June 4, 2006, Clara passed away after battling a long-term illness. She was just 69.
The Emotional Toll of Loss
The emotional connection between Clara and her mother Alberta (LaWanda Page) was deep and personal. Alberta, who died just four years before Clara, once said, “It’s very painful to lose a child. It’s like losing a part of yourself.” That grief wasn’t only about losing a daughter—it was about losing a spiritual confidant and best friend.
Those who knew them say their shared strength came from their unwavering belief in God. Even when life delivered hardship, their faith never cracked.
Her Legacy Lives On
Even after her passing, Clara Estella Roberta Johnson’s impact continues to ripple through the communities she served. Her ministry didn’t die with her—it evolved.
Key Community Initiatives Still Active Today:
- Clara E. Johnson Scholarship Fund: Supports students pursuing higher education, keeping Clara’s belief in growth and opportunity alive.
- Clara E. Johnson Food Pantry: Offers groceries and essentials to underserved families.
- Clara E. Johnson Medical Clinic: Delivers basic healthcare services for people without access.
Each of these programs reflects her core values—helping others, lifting people up, and serving without asking for anything in return.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Clara Estella Roberta Johnson?
She was an evangelist, mother, and community leader born in East St. Louis in 1937. She was the daughter of Alberta Richmond (aka LaWanda Page) and founded the Clara E. Johnson Evangelistic Association.
What did the Clara E. Johnson Evangelistic Association do?
The organization focused on gospel crusades, faith-based workshops, and humanitarian services like food, education, and medical aid.
What made Clara different from other evangelists?
Her work was deeply personal and community-driven. She avoided fame and focused instead on making real changes in real lives through spiritual support.
Is the Clara E. Johnson ministry still active?
Yes. Her nonprofit still runs vital programs like the scholarship fund, food pantry, and medical outreach under her name.
Final Thoughts
Clara Estella Roberta Johnson didn’t seek fame. She didn’t chase fortune. Instead, she followed a quiet but powerful path rooted in faith, kindness, and responsibility. Through her life and work, she showed that making a difference doesn’t require a spotlight—just a heart willing to serve.
Her story is one of purpose, of commitment, and of a legacy that continues to make the world a better place, one soul at a time.