Johnnie Mae Waller

Johnnie Mae Watson Waller’s life began on January 24, 1938, in Nelson County, Bardstown Kentucky, where she was born to John Leo Watson and Mary Alice Biven Watson. From the start, she carried a quiet strength, a deep sense of family, and a love for community that would shape every chapter of her life. She grew up in a close-knit home and later graduated from State Street High School in 1956, a milestone she was always proud of. Her faith guided her from an early age, and she became a devoted member of St. Joseph Catholic Church, where she found both spiritual grounding and lifelong friendships. On April 5, 1957, Johnnie Mae married the love of her life, James “Jimmy” William Waller, Sr., at St. Joseph Catholic Church. Their marriage was a partnership built on love, respect, and shared purpose. For 43 years, they built a home filled with warmth, laughter, and unwavering support for their children and grand-children. Jimmy preceded her in death in 2000, but the life they built together remained one of her greatest joys. Johnnie Mae worked more than 30 years at Capital Window and Doors, where she was known for her dedication, reliability, and strong work ethic. She retired in 2007, leaving behind colleagues who had long become friends. Her commitment to her community extended far beyond her career. She served actively on the Board of the George Washington Carver Center and supported the 4‑H Club, always believing in the importance of giving young people opportunities to grow and succeed. She showed up—consistently, quietly, and wholeheartedly. Outside of her service, Johnnie Mae found joy in the simple, beautiful things of life. She loved planting flowers and tending to her yard, creating spaces that reflected her care and creativity. She enjoyed traveling, playing cards, and making ceramics—hobbies that brought her both relaxation and connection with others. But above all, Johnnie Mae was devoted to her family. She supported her children and grandchildren in everything they pursued—church events, school activities, sports, and community programs. If they were involved, she was there. Her presence was steady, loving, and encouraging, the kind of support that shapes generations. On Friday, February 27, 2026, with loved ones by her side, Johnnie Mae was called to her eternal home from the Medical Center in Bowling Green. She leaves behind a legacy of love, service, faith, and family—a life lived with purpose and a heart that touched everyone who knew her, Johnnie Mae’s journey was shaped not only by the life she lived, but also by the loved ones who walked beside her and those whose memories she carried in her heart. She was preceded in death by her husband, James “Jimmy” William Waller, Sr., with whom she shared 43 years of partnership and devotion. She also carried the loss of her parents, John Leo and Mary Alice Watson; her son and daughter in law, James “Brotha” (Janet) Waller, Jr.; her daughter, Sherri Waller; and her grandparents, Bertha and Gus Bivens and Mariah and John Isaac Watson and sister-in-law Doris Watson. Their influence and love remained a guiding presence throughout her life. Even as she experienced loss, Johnnie Mae’s world was full of family who adored her and whom she cherished deeply. She leaves behind her daughters, Tonetta Garner and Lisa Waller, who were the center of her heart. Her grandchildren—Sky, Chase, Dominique, Cierra, Briana, Bianca, Justin, and Destiny—brought her endless joy, each one knowing they had a grandmother who believed in them without hesitation. Her great‑grandchildren—Nataya, Braylan, Julian, Lakyn, Makai, and Mikko—added a new layer of light to her later years, filling her home and her days with laughter, curiosity, and love. She is also survived by her sister, Mariah Brown, brother Melvin “Porter” Watson and by sisters‑in‑law Sarah Waller, Varna Jean Waller, Alice Watson, all of whom shared in the bonds of family and tradition. Her aunt, Margaret Reed, remained a treasured connection to earlier generations. And surrounding her always was a large, loving circle of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends—people she supported, encouraged, and welcomed with open arms. Johnnie Mae’s life was rich because of the people she loved and the people who loved her. Her legacy lives on in the family she nurtured, the community she served, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness, strength, and unwavering presence.

Johnnie Mae Waller

January 24, 1938 - February 27, 2026

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Johnnie Mae Waller

January 24, 1938 - February 27, 2026

365 Days of Grief Support

Explore

About Us

Grief & Healing

What We Do

Obituaries

Plan Ahead

Resources

Contact Info