Scotts Funeral Home | Richmond, VA

Obituary For Adele Celetia Johnson

It is with great sadness that the family of Adele C Johnson announces her passing on Sunday, April 25th from pancreatic cancer. Adele, affectionately known as AJ, was well-known for her non-profit work in the Richmond community having led the Virginia Regional Minority Supplier Development Council (VMSDC), Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation, and most recently, the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. She was preceded in death by her parents, Cyril and Alma Johnson. She leaves behind the love of her life for 25+ years, William S. (Bill) Cooper Jr (husband), her daughter Lisa D Collins (Lorenzo), son Eric S Cooper (Laila), 5 grandchildren (Emera, Lia, Lorenzo Jr, Eric Jr, and Elijah), along with a host of family and close friends. Celebration of life service is pending. To honor her memory and at her request, the family is asking that in lieu of any other acts of kindness that memorial donations be made to the Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia (122 West Leigh Street, Richmond 23220).

Guest Book

Billy words can't express the sadness that I felt when I learned of the passing Adele,Our deepest sympathy Roger Williams and family.

- na

We will miss you but we are assured that you are safe in Jesus hands. God bless the entire Cooper family. Rev Wendell and Vanessa smith

- na

My wife and I Will miss your Smiling face on Sunday , as Vanessa and I set next to you and your husband on Sunday morning. I pray for your husband Bill and your whole family. I know God loves you and he only wants The best. God bless Reverend Wendell and Vanessa Smith. Saint Pauls baptist church shepherd staff.

- na

What a beautiful soul. Her absence will be felt. Victoria Sanders s

- na

Thanks for your service Adele on behalf of the Virginia Environmental Justice Collaborative. Blessings to the Johnson family may you find strength and comfort and relish in the good memories.

- na

Sincerest condolences to the family and friends of a bright light who contributed much. Brenda Macklin

- na

On behalf of Reverend James "Jaydee" Lewis, Jr. his wife, Renada, thier son, Stephen and daughter Jayda, we would like to offer our most sincere sympathy to you Mr. Bill Cooper, Lisa, Lorenza and children. Miss Adele was a one of a kind rare beauty both inside and outside. She posessed the kind of quient strength and elegance the most women can only hope to portray. What a sweet soul and beautiful person whose memory we honor today and always. Earth has no sorrow that Heaven cannot heal. We offer you our prayers and our love today and always. Sincerely, The Lewis Family

- na

Lisa and Johnson family, you have my sincere prayers and condolences during this time. I can still see your Mom standing, smiling, and watching over her Grands in the Johnson section at St. Paul's. God's Word..."Well done good and faithful servant, you have been faithful. Let's Celebrate." Matthew 25:23

- na

Job well done, Good and Faithful Servant. Your works are not in Vain. Adele you will truly be missed. 😇😪🙏

- na

Lisa, I have so many fond memories of you and Adele as close members of the Crawley family. She had such a beautiful, calm, and sweet spirit. She was my forever sister! Praying for God to give you and your family the comfort and strength you need during this difficult time, and a feeling of peace in knowing that she is resting in His holy presence. ~ Love Alison, Dannie, & DJ.

- na

It is at a time of loss that we realize that our lives are filled with the grace and kindness of others, and Adele's legacy and impact on me and many others will live on to honor her. God has blessed us with AJ and now she is in Paradise. A grateful MBE~Ralph B. Ibarra-WA State

- na

I met Adele when I joined One Voice Chorus. She was a beautiful and talented lady and I enjoyed getting to know her. She will be missed. Blessings and prayers for her family. Pat Mays

- na

My sincerest sympathies to the Family of the iconic Adele Johnson. Her intelligence, leadership, mentorship and elegance will forever be remembered. Anita Jackson (Retired, Baltimore Gas & Electric Company)

- na

I am truly grateful to have been able to know such a wonderful person. Adele was a friend, mentor and showed many how to do this thing called Supplier Diversity the right way... With Class and Grace. Rest Well My Friend. To Bill, Be comforted that your angel is still watching over you and lives in your heart forever. -Gail Birks Davie Florida

- na

May God hold her in his light. Billy- may her memory be a blessing to you. -Ann Melvin Gray, Chris Melvin , Jr.

- na

Bill and Family, It was Adele's astute leadership and consummate professionalism that not only drew me and others to the VMSDC but propelled the Council to numerous awards during her tenure. Words are never adequate but my fervent prayer is that God's comfort comes to you and your family quickly. Thomas H. Bowles, IV

- na

Bill & Family, Know that your CVMSDC family and the CVMSDC Board of Directors are lifting you up in prayer. Adele made a legendary impact in our community. Dominique M.

- na

Peace, beautiful lady. To Bill & family my most sincere condolences in the loss of dear AJ. She was the embodiment of a gracious & spirited being in the occasions which we shared; from performances with One Voice, our mutual support of charitable events & visits to my store. Your light will be missed. Todd Minnich

- na

Bill, Lisa and family I am lifting you all up in my prayers as you grieve this incredible loss. I only worked with Adele for 3 years at RPS Education Foundation, but she made a lasting impact. I so admired the grace, poise and compassion Adele brought to everything she touched. I considered Adele to be so much more than a boss. She was a friend and a trusted mentor. I still carry so many of the lessons I learned from her into my work today. I am better because I knew her.

- na

I miss Adele more than I can explain. Have worked closely with her at Richmond Public Schools Education Foundation as was working with her at the Black History Museum of VA. We shared many thoughts together and we were always laughing at one thing or another. Adele's smile was contagious! My prayers have gone up for Bill and the rest of the family. Job well done Adele and may she Rest In Peace. All of our strength comes from the Lord.

- na

I had the distinct honor of working with Adele several years ago while we were both employed with the Virginia Department of Minority Business Enterprise. She was a great person to work with, a true professional, and asset to our business clients. I was stunned and saddened by the news of this loss. My heartfelt condolences go out to the entire family. Garland W. Curtis

- na

I met Adele when I started singing with One Voice Chorus. She was truly a delightful and beautiful person and so talented in so many ways. My thoughts and prayers are with her family. She will truly be missed. Pat Mays

- na

Sincere sorrow on the passing of a most gracious lady. Elizabeth Lambert Johns

- na

What a beautiful person. She was the epitome of a beautiful, caring and confident lady. We had a conference four years at the Black History & Cultural Museum and she was so welcoming and always with a smile. May God give you comfort and peace as you take on a new journey. Joanne

- na

A truly elegant, graceful and beautiful woman. God bless the family

- na

The family of Adele, the Richmond VA community and indeed the entire world has lost a truly wonderful and great person. Adele will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to know her and to work with her. AJ's tireless work for humanity and her many contributions are unsurpassed. I know that my life was blessed to have worked with Adele for almost a decade and those years have always been and always will be cherished greatly. Bill and family, our heart goes out to you. Know that we ae thinking of you and praying for you today and always. Greg Huelsman, past Chair VRMSDC, and Beverly Huelsman

- na

Brother Cooper and Family, Words cannot adequately say how we cared and loved Adele in the NMSDC Family. Please know that pleasant memories will sustain and comfort you especially now. We are praying for your uplift! Respectfully, David L. Fitts A Past Chairman of the former Carolinas MSDC "FIETTS"

- na

Bill, I offer my condolences. Adele was a special lady full of grace, dignity and beauty. May God be with you and your family, John Sherman

- na

To Lisa (and family) It's SeñoRita. Know that your mom fulfilled what God sent her to accomplish. She gave so much, she cared so much, she educated, she served, she encouraged, she LOVED and was LOVED. Well done thy good and faithful servant, WELL DONE!

- na

To Lisa (and family) It's SeñoRita. Know that your mom fulfilled what God sent her to accomplish. She gave so much, she cared so much, she educated, she served, she encouraged, she LOVED and was LOVED. Well done thy good and faithful servant, WELL DONE!

- na

Billy and family, my sincerest condolences to you all. I only had the pleasure of meeting Adele once, and she was indeed a presence of grace and beauty. I pray an abundance of God's love, grace and peace envelope you all and keep you in the days to come, and forever. Nona Johnson Mason

- na

Dear Adele, the footprints you leave behind are indelible in our hearts. Your spirit, compassion, intelligence and beautiful voice will continue to resonate in us always. Rest peacefully in the arms of the Lord, my friend. We will miss you.

- na

While Adele was serving our community and making Richmond a better place, she was also using her beautiful Sporano voice to sing to the power and diversity of music. Adele I am saddened that we will never sing together again. Rest In Power.

- na

Bill, Lisa & family my sincerest condolences. There are no words that could appropriately describe the impact and influence that your wife and mother has had on so many and I count it a privilege to be counted in that number. I am honored to Chair the Board for an organization that would not exist without her knowledge and wisdom. - Jeff Conley Chair Board of Directors CVMSDC formerly VMSDC/VRMSDC

- na

My condolences and prayers to you Bill and the family. Such a beautiful person. Travis Taylor

- na

Your love of music was personified in your many years with One Voice Chorus (OVC), including serving as a Board Member and as President of OVC. We loved that having you as part of the group gave us access to Bill, who for years led our pre-concert conversations that addressed our mission of racial reconciliation. Even when your schedule did not permit you to continue singing with us, you provided opportunities for us to advance our mission through special events with you at the Black History Museum. We can't believe you are gone... we will miss you so!!

- na

May the love of God comfort your family at this time and always. Her love will forever reside in your hearts and lives. She is the Angel that is watching over her loving family. My deepest and most heart felt sympathies are sent to you and your family now and forever. Her light will shine for all the world to see thru you and we will all be graced with it's brightness forever. Love, Hugs and Peace be yours.

- na

Her sprit of kindness, empathy, love, and charity will live for ever. I am blessed to know her and call her a friend. May God bring peace and solace to Bill and rest of the family.

- na

May the promises of Heaven give you peace, and the tender touch of the Father bring you comfort and strength! ~ Cavell W. Phillips

- na

Adele, a Ray of sunshine! Fond memories..... Let them fill your mind, warm and guard your heart, and lead you through the storms of life. ~ Gee Law Firm, P.C.

- na

What a beautiful person inside and out. Prayers for her family as they go through this difficult time. She will be missed. I worked with her for many years and it was always a pleasure.

- na

Your love of music was personified in your many years with One Voice Chorus (OVC), including serving as a Board Member and as President of OVC. We loved that having you as a member gave us access to Bill, who for years led our pre-concert conversations that addressed our mission of racial reconciliation. Even when your schedule did not permit you to continue singing with us, you provided opportunities for us to advance our mission through special events with you at the Black History Museum. We can't believe you are gone... we will miss you so!!

- na

Our prayers and love go out to all of the family. Adele was a role model and touched the lives of MANY. May the Lord give you strength as He surrounds you with love. John & Renee Jones /SPBC/Church Hill Cleaners.

- na

As a members of Saint Paul's Baptist Church I witnessed Ms Adele serve her church and family with such grace and dedication. To the family, find comfort in the many blessed memories you've made! We believe she will be a beaming light in Heaven and your shining Angel on Earth! During this difficult time, Lee your head up!!! Peace Diane and Ronald Allison

- na

Adele was a true champion of many causes. Working with her on her years with The Virginia Regional Minority Supplier Council, I witnessed her skills on team building and making the community a better place. Thinking of Bill Cooper and her family. C.T. Hill

- na

She certainly made this world a better place. I am so glad that I knew her. She will be a role model for me and future generations. Beth McClelland

- na

Our deepest sympathy to the Johnson family. Lean on your faith to get you through the days ahead. Donald and Tracy McWilliams

- na

AJ I had the pleasure of meeting you through Bill your beautiful spirit a s flawless smile lit the room. May you Rest in the Arms of our Lord 🙏🏽 Bill May God comfort you and your family during this great loss.

- na

Rest in blessed peace beautiful woman. You were indeed a class act.

- na

May warmest thoughts of sympathy help in some small way to ease your loss and sadness as you face each coming day . Thank your for providing learning opportunities and scheduling tours and teaching Black History to our communities and students in the Richmond City Public Schools. You are the source of all life , and because of your love of Black Women Rights will continually live on.

- na

Precious memories, oh how they linger in our hearts, always with us. Billy, your Beautiful Adele will always be with you, your children, grandchildren and all of the lives she touched. She was a positive influence on everyone around her and that infectious spirit will be her legacy. May God place His Loving Arms around You and Your Family, Comfort You and give You Strength. Keeping you in our thoughts and prayers. Heaven has gained another Beautiful Angel. Love you, Delia and Rudy Pitchford.

- na

From Capital One to Black History Museum, Adele was always willing to lend a hand. She was such a lady of style, grace and class. I am blessed to have had an opportunity to have known her. Bill, Lisa and family please known that Adele has touched so many lives and she will be missed. Keeping you all lifted in prayer. Love SAMANTHA T.

- na

I will always cherish the relationship Adele and I shared. From our first encounter at Capital One to Black Facts Competition at the Black History Museum and Cultural Center of Virginia. Adele always had a calming demeanor. She offered advice without judgment. She always greeted me with a smile and hug. I admired her and loved her dearly. Bill, Lisa and family please take pleasure in knowing that AJ touched my life immensely. I love you all. ~ Samantha Thompson

- na

Our few meetings, at family celebrations, impressed an indelible image upon me, Adele, a woman of natural grace and resolve. Heartfelt condolences to her family and colleagues.

- na

She was a beautiful soul, my deepest sympathy to the family. Prayerfully at Peace and in God's loving embrace. May God Bless you all in this time and in the future with comfort, peace, love and happiness.

- na

This is heartbreaking and so unbelievable! We've known AJ for years both personally and professionally. We looked forward to the program s at the BHMV of which she passionately gave her all and gave prominence to the Museum. She will be sorely missed. Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and friends. Ase Queen.

- na

To Adele's Loved ones, I am truly sorry for your loss and pain. I too lost my mother Sherry D Rowe to Cancer this year, she worked with Adele at Minority Business Enterprise and then VRMDC for a number of years. This hurts deeply as Mommie loved and respected Adele her charisma, class and passion for her work and her causes..she will truly be missed

- na

One of the brightest lights to ever shine has gone out. Rest in peace, dear Friend. To Bill and Family: May you derive strength and comfort from our Lord and Savior and from all those around you who loved Adele and who basked in her glow. Mary DePillars

- na

May God be with the family and know that He cares.

- na

Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Scotts Funeral Home | Richmond, VA