Martha Johnson

Martha Johnson, known as "Ann Martha," passed away on May 24, 2025, at the age of 70 in Huntsville, Texas. She was born on December 15, 1954, in New Waverly, Texas to George “Rev" Johnson and Ethel “Ma" Johnson. 

Martha graduated from New Waverly High School in New Waverly, Texas in 1972. After graduating high school, Martha started working at a bookstore in Huntsville, Texas as a manager. She also married John Sykes in 1977, and together they raised two children, “Queenie & “Honey." In 1991, Martha adopted two little girls, “Nene" & “Fat-Fat." Also, in 1991, Martha moved to Alexandria, LA, where she took on a new job at the Pinecrest Support and Services Center in Pineville, LA, working with adults with disabilities. In addition, she worked at a Holiday Inn as a housekeeper.

Martha was always known to work multiple jobs to provide for her family.  In 2012, Martha moved back to her hometown Huntsville, Texas to be closer to family and friends for her remaining years. Martha was a devoted and loving mother to 3 girls: Iris “Queenie" Sykes Wyatt (Johnny), Maneshia  “Nene” Encalade, Ashlee “Fat-Fat" Johnson, and one son, John: “Honeycat" Sykes Jr (Canstance).  Martha's legacy continued to grow with the joy and love of her grandchildren: Bermontra Mills, De'vuntae Jones, Nathaniel Autry, Aaliyah Bennett, Deldrick Wyatt Karesha Wyatt , Tyree Wyatt , Alecia Vonner, Keshawn Kyah, Kimora Sykes, and Kamiya Sykes. She also had a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces and nephews.

  Martha will be remembered for her love of gambling and always feeding anybody, nobody was a stranger to her. She enjoyed talking to her friends and family, playing dominoes, and was the goat of spades - no one could ever beat her. She will also leave the mark of her famous sweet potato pie, which the whole family enjoyed at every family gathering.

Martha is preceded in death by her parents, George "Rev" and Ethel "Ma" Johnson; her husband: John Sykes, and brother: John Lee Johnson. 

Martha is survived by her twin sister, Mary Johnson-Dickerson, and brother: George O'Neal Johnson (Vera). Most importantly, her children, grandchildren, nieces, and nephews will continue to carry her enduring spirit. Martha Johnson's memories are filled with joy and love that will always be cherished, kept alive, and passed down to future generations of her family and friends.