Obituary of Nina Maria Johns Sr

Nina Maria Johns Sr., daughter of Gladys & Robert Rivers Sr. was born June 7, 1947 in Valhalla, New York. From a young age Nina was under the tutelage of her Grandmother Alafair who instilled her with the love of God. She would say “Never turn His hand a loose”.

Nina was a graduate of Gorton High School. She was very athletic and competed in track & field and gymnastics. Many years later she continued her education at Westchester Community College. She was a lifelong learner in the Westchester Art Workshops. Her professors would chuckle with her saying she should be teaching their classes. Nina met the love of her life and married Philip N. Johns. Their love of over 60 years produced 7 children. Many others call her Mom, Grandma, Aunt Nina, Sister.

Nina & Phil moved from Yonkers to White Plains, NY where they have resided for over 50 years with their children and grandchildren. Nina loved her family. Every moment surrounded by them fueled her with beaming pride. She was completely dedicated to them! Nina treasured sharing her recycled material crafts with her after school children. She shared her love for art through murals created with the children in the Ardsley School District. Several of which are still on the walls. She developed a Native American program sharing her culture. She taught everything from Native doll making to beading to cooking.

Nina accepted the Lord into her heart following an invitation to Gospel Hall on 115th St. in Harlem NY. She continued to fellowship there for over 20 years. Her boundless love for spreading the word of God was exhibited with the missionary trips and vacations to Canada, Guyana, Trinidad, Tobago, Barbados, Jamaica, France, and England with her dear sister Deborah and her brothers and sisters in Christ.

Nina had a thankful heart for the hands God gave her, sharing her talents was a great joy. She sewed countless wedding dresses. Designed extraordinary floral arrangements and even prepared food for many of the weddings. She had a flower for every occasion and a handmade bouquet that was her centerpiece.  She created Bible based crafts for Vacation Bible School & Mountain View Bible Camp. Even after she stopped attending camp, crafts were sent with Philip and her Grandchildren. The simple craft was a tool to witness and share God’s Love.

She found a new home to fellowship in Calvary Chapel of Westchester. She was known for her strong hugs and always encouraging words. In 2016 her missionary work continued with her journey to Cambodia.

Up until 2020 Nina was actively working in Ridgeway Church Ministries.PrimeTime for Kids again creating handmade crafts as part of a coommunity after school/outreach. She fellowshipped with the Women of God Bible study group for many years. Even having an opportunity to praise dance with them. Nina also volunteered in the Food Pantry. Using every small interaction to be a light for God’s glory.

Nina was a dedicated wife, mother, sister, aunt, friend who loved to feed people. Her food was her segue to share about the Goodness of Jesus.  She actually didn’t know how to cook for just 2 people. She cooked for an army every time she stepped to the stove. Her apple crisp progressed over the years from a healthy breakfast food to an oh so sweet dessert. The treasured recipe for “Momma Biscuits” has been entrusted to the Grands. They were her heart beat. She made every event she was invited to even if she watched it remotely!

On Tuesday, August 15, 2023 surrounded by her husband Philip and children God called Nina home to rest. Preceded in death by her parents Gladys & Robert Rivers Sr, her siblings, Robert Jr., Carol (Rivers) & William Gonzalez, Earl Monroe, James Monroe, Rosita Whitley and her beloved son Deland Johns.

Her life will be celebrated by her devoted husband, Philip Johns Sr. and sister Deborah Foster of Newark, DE. Her children Nina, PJ, Kyle, Timothy & Nicole, Kyla & Dondi Watts, and Nicole Sanchez & Jonathan Johns. Nina leaves to cherish her memory 24 grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren, nephews and nieces, cousins and countless friends.

In Nina’s own words, “Yes, there are always ups and downs. However, God has taught me to come to Him in prayer and talk with Him. He listens and will take care of you ALWAYS. Maybe you are lonely, stressed out about things. You can give it All To Him and wait patiently for Him to show you what to do! Walk by Faith! You are God’s SHINING Lights in this World! Please don’t let your Light dim or go out! SEEK HIM while there is still time! He is always by your side! Keep Trusting Him! Who will you Pass on God’s love to??