Maurice E. Johnson,

Maurice E. Johnson, age 83, of Taylorsville, passed away on Saturday, December 10th, 2011 at Frye Regional Medical Center.  He was born on June 27th, 1928 in Catawba County to parents Charlie Butler and Vela Aquilla Paige Johnson.  He attended Bethlehem Baptist Church. He enjoyed his church, fishing, woodworking, and working on small engines.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, David Johnson; and 2 brothers: Billy Ray and Paul Hardy Johnson.  Those left to cherish his memory include his wife of 64 years, Pearl Bowman Johnson of the home; son, Larry Johnson and wife Carolyn of Taylorsville; sister, Jane Lackey of Taylorsville; daughter-in-law, Kathy Johnson of Williamston, S.C.; 4 granddaughters: Audra Terry and husband Eric of Spartanburg, S.C.; Angela Hunt and husband Ben – also of Spartanburg; Tracie Campbell and husband Michael of Williamston, S.C.; and Jennifer Russell and husband Israel of Taylorsville. He also leaves behind 7 great-grandchildren: Erika Terry, Cody Braisher, Kailey Hunt, David Terry, Lauryn Hunt, Kennady Russell, and Lainey Russell; in addition to a host of nieces and nephews.  Visitation will be conducted on Tuesday, December 13th, at Bethlehem Baptist Church from 7 – 8:30 P.M.  Funeral services will be held on Wednesday, December 14th at the church at 2:00 P.M. where Rev. Kenneth Lambert and Rev. Kenneth Little will officiate.  The body will lie in states 30 minutes prior to the funeral hour. Burial will follow in the church cemetery. In addition to flowers, memorials may be made to:  The American Cancer Society. In memory of  David Johnson. P.O. Box 22718.  Oklahoma City, OK   73123.  Alexander Funeral Service has been entrusted with arrangements.