Murlean Virginia Johnson was born on November 21, 1930 in Saint Louis, Missouri to the union of Albert and Luella Johnson. She was preceded in death by her parents and four siblings, Albert, Lionel, Princess and Alvera.

Murlean gave her life to Christ at an early age and later joined and served at Trinity Mount Carmel Baptist Church in Florissant, Missouri. Murt, as she was affectionately known, loved God and would witness to any hurting soul or open ear about the love and mercy of the Lord. She became an Ordained Minister under the leadership and guidance of Pastor Fannie Russel–Taylor.

Murt attended Saint Louis Public Schools, graduating from Vashon High School and receiving her Bachelor and Masters degrees from Harris Stowe Teachers College.

Murt served more than thirty years as a Contract Specialist for the Federal Government. After her retirement she went on to teach for another twelve years in the Saint Louis Public School system. Her love of children also led her to volunteer with the Hyde Park Mentoring Program teaching art and life skills to underprivileged children.

Murlean leaves to cherish one daughter, Beverly Lavada Howard (James) and one son, Murell Albert Jenkins; one sister, Lavada Morgan of Saint Louis, Missouri and brother, Sylvester Johnson of Washington, D.C.; grandchildren, Melanie, Quinton, Leah, Sara, Aaron, Rachel, Joseph and David; seven great grandchildren and a host of great great grandchildren, nieces and nephews. Murlean also leaves to cherish her church family and a host of life long friends.

She has been a blessing to us all and will be missed.