Effie L. Porter-Johnson

Effie Lee Porter Johnson was born on April 11, 1948, in the big city of Chicago, Illinois. She was the beloved daughter of Louis and Mary Bittle Porter.

Effie grew up in Gurdon, Arkansas, where she attended Bell High School and graduated with the Class of 1966. Shortly after graduation, she returned to Chicago and continued her education at Malcolm X College.

Effie was a homegirl through and through—a strong woman who knew how to position herself to live, work, and thrive in the streets of Chicago. Make no mistake about it: Effie was a city girl! She worked as a Operator for the Chicago Transit Authority for more than 17 years, where she met her husband. Driving through the busy streets of Chicago required patience, confidence, and a strong backbone—and Effie had all three. She married Carl Johnson in 1986.

Effie was a loving mother, a loyal friend, and a fierce protector of her children, grandchildren, and entire family. She took care of business, meant what she said, and said exactly what she meant. There was no need to wonder where you stood with Effie because she would gladly tell you herself! Everyone knew that you did not cross Effie—as surely as the sun was shining, she was going to stand her ground and protect the people she loved.

After many years in Chicago, Effie and Carl returned to Gurdon in search of a slower and more peaceful way of life. There, she reunited with family and longtime friends. She also rededicated her life to Christ and returned to Mt. Canaan Baptist Church, the church she had attended as a young girl. She faithfully shared her gift as a member of the choir.

Effie knew how to enjoy life. She loved playing bingo, listening to the blues, and spending time with her family and friends. She remained young at heart, and her home often became the gathering place for younger family members and friends. They knew they could come to Effie’s house, be themselves, laugh loudly, and enjoy good company—but they also knew how to behave themselves!

And do not get it twisted: Effie could cook—cook! The only question was whether she felt like doing it. She would get into the kitchen when she had to, and when she did, everyone knew a good meal was coming.

Effie also had a remarkable green thumb. She could plant, nurture, and grow just about anything. Her ability to bring life from the soil reflected the way she cared for her family—firmly, faithfully, and with plenty of love.

Effie accepted life for the good days and the bad days, the good times and the hard times. She never pretended that life was easy, but she refused to allow difficult circumstances to defeat her. Through her strength, determination, humor, and unmistakable personality, she left her family a blueprint for how to survive life’s challenges and still come out smiling.

On August 25, 2026, Effie completed her earthly journey at the beautiful age of 78. She was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Mary Bittlle Porter; her husband, Carl Johnson (2006); her beloved daughter, Kotonya Porter (2004); and her grandson, James "Red" Rayford Hartsfield, Jr (2017).; her siblings, Louis Porter, Joseph Porter, Cynthia A. Porter, Linda Hunt and Marie A. Hunt.

Effie leaves a legacy of love and strength with her children, Kenneth L. Porter, Patrina M. (Glenn McDaniels) Porter, and Natasha (Raymond, Sr.) Porter, all of Chicago, Illinois, and Carl Johnson Jr. of Arkadelphia, Arkansas. She also leaves eleven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; two sisters, Perri Porter Walker and Martina Bryant; her bonus sisters, Patricia Barnes, Cellia “Cici” Campbell, Valerie Gilmer, Janice Chamberlain, and Romona “Cookie” Laster; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, acquaintances, and a few true friends who remained by her side.

Effie Lee Porter Johnson lived boldly, loved fiercely, laughed freely, and handled her business. She meant what she said, said what she meant, and never apologized for being exactly who she was. Her voice may now be silent, but the lessons she taught, the love she gave, and the strength she demonstrated will continue to be spoken for generations.