Annie Blanch Johnson

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our beloved mother, grandmother, aunt and friend, Annie Blanch Leach Johnson, known to all those who knew and loved her as Blanch.

Early Life and Education
Blanch was born August 25, 1931, to Minnie Margaret and Frank Odell Pryer. Blanch was the youngest of four and had two sisters, Letha and Ruth; one brother, Richard; and one half-sister. Her early years were shaped by her deep-rooted faith in Christ that she carried with her every day of her life.

She was baptized in the creek at Zion #1 in Barton, Alabama by Reverend Ford. Blanch graduated from Trenholm High School, where she was a versatile athlete having played basketball (guard) and accompanied the marching band as a majorette.

Career and Passions

Blanch’s professional journey was as diverse as it was fulling and was characterized by service to others. She ran Garner Florist in Tuscumbia, where her resourceful and artistic nature enabled her passion for floral arrangements and interior design to flourish. A creative spirit with the gift of hospitality, she loved making spaces beautiful and welcoming for others. Blanch also worked in sales at the Dollar Store and later found joy as a hairdresser, bringing smiles to many with her warm personality and humor. You could also feel her love feed your soul, literally, through the delicious meals and deserts she would make, often from scratch.

Known to be nurturing, pragmatic, caregiver, she used these qualities to support the well-being of the citizens of Lauderdale County, Alabama, through her work with the County Health Department. Additionally, she cared for students at the infirmary at Florence State (now the University of North Alabama). Though you may have encountered her for support with your physical health, you could never leave her presence without having your spiritual and emotional health uplifted as well.

Family and Personal Life
Blanch married James Lewis Leach in 1949. Together, they had three beautiful children, Shirley Ann Leach Watkins, James Spencer Leach (deceased), Steven Lewis Leach (deceased). Aer James’ untimely passing in 1972, she exempli ed continued strength and resilience raising and providing for two young children on her own. She was known to say she wasn’t going to get married again, that was until she met Fred Johnson. They married and their families joined together seamlessly as she became Momma #2 to Marc Edward Johnson, who she loved dearly.

Blanch had five grandchildren, who were her pride and joy, Laurence Marcel Watkins, Jr. (deceased), Syreeta Blanch Watkins, and Jade Marie Morales Skinner, Marc Edward Johnson, II, and Myles Evan Johnson. Blanch was known for her affectionate sayings, often sharing, “I love you a bushel and a peck and a hug around the neck ... although you make my life a wreck, I love you,” a line that echoed her playful spirit and was inspired by Doris Day.

Faith and Favorites
Blanch’s faith was a cornerstone of her life. Her favorite song was “Precious Lord” by Mahalia Jackson, a hymn that resonated with her deeply and provided comfort throughout her life. Blanch will be remembered for “going over fools hill” with grace and humor-a testament to her resilience and optimistic outlook. She loved to laugh and would often make funny faces, secret languages and handshakes with her grandchildren and great- grandchildren. Her warmth, generosity, and unwavering love le an indelible mark on all who knew her.

Legacy
Blanch’s existence was characterized by love, strength, humor, and unwavering faith; she was a fighter, storyteller and encourager. Casual encounters with strangers in the grocery store would often turn into counseling sessions as the Lord regularly used her to speak life into others.

Her life was a rich tapestry of love, service, and joy. She touched the hearts of many and will be dearly missed. May she rest in eternal peace. Blanch entered the eternal presence of the Lord on October 17, 2024, at the age of 93. She is survived by her children, Shirley Ann Watkins (Laurence Watkins) and Marc Edward Johnson (Dion Johnson); grandchildren, Syreeta Blanch Watkins, Jade Marie Skinner (Sam Skinner), Marc Edward Johnson, II, and Myles Evan Johnson; great-grandchildren, Delaine Noel Rush Watkins, Raazhel Adriel Watkins, Xander Steven Skinner, Ezekiel
(Zeke) Michael Skinner, and numerous family members (blood and chosen) who will continue to carry forward her legacy.

A graveside service will be held to honor Blanch’s life and legacy. Details will be provided to family and close friends.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Annie Blanch Johnson, please visit our floral store.