Mrs. Johnnie Mae Alford Charles

With heartfelt sympathy, Mitchell-Josey Funeral Home, Inc., and members of the Charles and Alford families announce the transition of Mrs. Johnnie Mae Alford Charles of Darlington, SC. Mrs. Charles reached her heavenly reward on Sunday, November 30, 2025, peacefully at home after an illness.

Visitation for family and friends will be held at the residence, 552 Pan Rd, Darlington, SC.

Public viewing will be held from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, Saturday, December 6, 2025, at Mitchell-Josey Funeral Home, 612 S Main St, Darlington, SC.

Funeral service will be held 1:30 PM, Sunday, December 7, 2025, at Mt Zion Baptist Church, 3208 N Governor Williams Hwy, Darlington, SC. Interment will follow in the church cemetery.

Obituary

Ms. Johnnie Mae Alford-Charles was born in Darlington, South Carolina, on May 26, 1947, to the late Mr. Johnny Alford and Mrs. Lillie Green-Alford. On November 30, 2025, she peacefully transitioned from this life at her home, surrounded by the warmth, love, and gentle care of her family.

Ms. Johnnie Mae Alford-Charles was a proud graduate of Mayo High School, Class of 1965. She later became a faithful and dedicated member of Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Dovesville, South Carolina, where she worshipped and served with a joyful heart.

Johnnie Mae worked with the Darlington County Action Agency, where she taught Head Start and touched countless young lives. After 30+ years of devoted service, she retired, leaving behind a legacy of patience, compassion, and commitment to education.

Affectionately known to family and friends as “Short-Cake,” Johnnie Mae was the true definition of love in action. She was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend. Her sweet, sassy, and vibrant personality lit up every room she entered. She loved to cook, dance, and bring the family together for unforgettable gatherings filled with laughter, joy, and her warm spirit.

Johnnie Mae had a remarkable gift for creativity. She was incredibly crafty and never shied away from taking on new projects. Whether she was sewing, designing something beautiful, or finding thrifty ways to turn simple things into treasures, her hands were always busy creating love in tangible form. Her talents, resourcefulness, and passion for making things special will forever be remembered.

Preceding her in death were her three beloved sons — Fletcher Alford, Archie Charles, and Arthur Charles — and one sibling, Rose Mootoo.

Those left to cherish her precious memory include:

Her two children — Katrina Charles and Calvin Charles.

One sibling — Ann Joseph.

Seventeen grandchildren — Karissma Charles, Ta’Wuan Charles, T’Andre Allen, Kelaija “Diamond” Graham, Christian Charles, Christopher Charles, Abriella Curtis, April Curtis, Dejon Curtis, De’Siree Alford, Destiny Alford, Tanaisha Thomas, Rodney Brunson Jr., Caleb Collins, Alton Robinson, Precious Davis, and Zy’Aire “Caniya” Charles.

A host of great-grandchildren, honorary grandchildren, aunts, uncles, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins who adored her deeply.

Johnnie Mae’s love, strength, creativity, and unwavering spirit will continue to live on through the many hearts she touched. Though she is no longer with us in body, her memory, her laughter, and her beautiful legacy will remain forever.

Please keep the family and friends of Mrs. Johnnie Mae Alford Charles in your thoughts and prayers. 

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