Ms. Nia Keanna Johnson

It is with heartfelt sadness that we announce the passing of our beloved Nia Keanna Johnson. She was a bright and ambitious young lady whose life was marked by extraordinary dedication and kindness. Nia entered into eternal rest on September 12, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering commitment to her family, faith, friends, and the pursuit of knowledge. Born on June 4, 1997, Nia demonstrated remarkable intelligence and drive from a young age. Her academic journey was nothing short of inspiring. She earned two undergraduate degrees in Kinesiology and Nutrition from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and East Tennessee State University, respectively, and achieved her certification in Sports Nutrition. During her time as a student, she enjoyed working at the Nutrition Fueling Station with the UT Football team and providing nutritional snacks and information for the ETSU Women’s Basketball team. She was working towards completing her master’s degree in nutrition at North Carolina Central University. She taught youth nutritional culinary classes at the YWCA in Greensboro, North Carolina. Her dedication to her studies was fueled by her desire to make a meaningful impact in the field of nutrition, reflecting her deep-seated belief in the power of education and her commitment to improving the lives of others. Nia was not only known for her academic achievements but also for her warm and thoughtful nature. She had an incredible ability to lift others up with her encouraging words and genuine support. She was gifted with the ability to truly empathize with those around her. Her faith in God was a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through her triumphs and health challenges with grace and strength. Family was the center of Nia’s life. She cherished her loved ones deeply and was a constant source of support and inspiration. Her dedication to her family was unwavering. Nia enjoyed all things Disney, whether it was Disney movies, Disney theme parks, or Disney cruises. She also loved shopping with her mother and sister. Because Nia paid close attention to the smallest details of her family’s lives, she had the unique ability to give the most thoughtful and insightful gifts. Nia’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of her family and those who knew and loved her. She will be remembered for her intellect, compassion, wit, and limitless enthusiasm for life. Her legacy will continue through the lives she touched and the work she so fervently pursued. Nia attended Thankful Baptist Church, where she was involved in various ministries. She was a member of the Children’s Choir, Brave Believer’s Bible Club, and Devotion in Motion Dance Team. She taught youth Wednesday Night Bible study and Vacation Bible School. She was very supportive of Women’s ministries. A Celebration of Life to honor Nia Keanna Johnson will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 4 p.m. from Thankful Baptist Church. The family will receive friends at 3 p.m. until the hour of service. Viewings will be conducted Friday, September 20, 2024, from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Birchette Mortuary & Cremation Service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Thankful Baptist Church/Nia Johnson Fund to establish an academic scholarship in her honor. Donations can be mailed to 1501 E. Watauga Avenue, Johnson City TN 37601. Nia is survived by her devoted parents, Dr. Keith and Shirley Johnson; her brother and protector, Vincent Johnson; her big sister and best friend, Imani Johnson; and her loving paternal grandmother, Carolyn C. Johnson. She also leaves to cherish her memory her aunts, Edna Edgerston, Ollie Gibbs, and Dianne (Thomas) Cox; uncles, Alvonzo Peters, James Solomon, Horace (Linda) Johnson, Jr. and Darry (Melissa) Scott; her adopted grandparents, Rev. Robert and Patricia Hedgepeth and the Pine Chapel Baptist Church family; her best friend since 2nd grade, Annalee Brantner and the Brantner family; and numerous loving cousins and other close relatives and friends. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing her. May she rest in peace, and may her life continue to inspire everyone to strive for greatness, to act with kindness, and to hold our loved ones close.

Ms. Nia Keanna Johnson

June 4, 1997 - September 12, 2024