Johnny Morris Hope

JOHNNY MORRIS HOPE, age 81, the oldest of three children, was born February 23, 1940 in Marion, AL. He was the son of Tommie Hope, Jr., and Pinkie L. (Atkins) Hope. He passed into the Kingdom of the Lord on June 16, 2021, in his home with his beloved wife and daughter by his side.

Johnny attended Lincoln High School in Marion AL and graduated in 1957. He was very active in both basketball and softball. He accepted the Lord and was baptized at Mt. Ararat Baptist Church in Marion, AL at a young age.

In 1959, Johnny moved to Chicago, IL where he worked at the Glass Company making glass windows and doors. In 1963, Johnny joined the US Army, where he received the rank of Private First Class (PFC) E-3 (P). He became a sharpshooter (Rifle M-14), 2nd class gunner, 81mmM. Johnny received several citations, ribbons, and recognitions for his marksmanship. He completed his general military term in 1965 and received an honorable discharged on July 8, 1969 after completing four additional years in the Army Reserve. Johnny was as a very ambitious and hardworking man. He loved to work. It was not unusual for him to work up to three jobs at any one time. When he started to work for Ford Motor Company in 1965, he was also working at Central Hardware and a local gasoline station as an attendant. During his 40 years at Ford Motor Company as a machinist and die setter, Johnny was repeatedly acknowledged for his loyalty, dedication and hard work as noted by the many certifications and recognitions he received for services rendered and the multiple gold rings and watches awarded to him at key anniversary dates of 25, 30 and 35 years of service.

While living in Chicago, on June 16, 1960, Johnny married his beautiful high school sweetheart, Ludie Mae Wright from Marion, AL who he loved dearly. They were married for exactly 61years when Johnny passed away on the morning of their anniversary. To this wonderful union, three blessed children were born: Jacqueline Danielle (Hope) Yates, Johnny Morris Hope, Jr. and Michael Steven Hope. Johnny and Ludie started their new family in Chicago, IL, but ultimately settled in Indianapolis, IN which became a haven for many. Johnny and Ludie loved each other and their children, especially their grands, great-grandchildren, god-daughter, LaVella Washington and god-children.

Johnny loved games. Just about every weekend, you would find him playing cards, dominos and/or shooting pool. Johnny also loved watching westerns. In addition, he had unique culinary skills, especially his BBQ and “secret sauce” which was proclaimed “It’s good” by all. Although, he did do some fishing, it was not Johnny’s favorite pastime.

Johnny is preceded in death by both parents and his youngest brother, Clemon Hope. He is survived by his wife, Ludie Mae Hope; children, Jacqueline D. (Mark) Yates, Johnny Morris (Marsha) Hope, Jr., and Michael S. Hope; god-daughter, LaVella Washington; brother, Percy (Lula) Hope; in-laws: Helen Harris, Dorothy Stanley and Alson (Theressa) Wright; six grandchildren; eleven great-grandchildren; two god-children; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, relatives, and friends.