Braggette Jayvonne Johnson (whom we endearingly called “Granny” and “BJ”) was born on April 13, 1971, to Barbara Beaty Sullivan and the late Jay Bee Johnson. In the early days of her life, Braggette was a faithful member of Mountain View Baptist Church. She was a Sunday School teacher, worked with Children’s Church, and sang with the Voices of Mountain View. She loved to sing (you could easily spot her by her distinctive voice and hand clap). However, it was during her praise dance that her love for the Lord was truly showcased. Braggette would later move to Atlanta, Georgia, to pursue her dreams. There she joined Trinity Bible Church and continued to minister through song and dance. In fact, many people thought that she was an ordained minister because of the conviction and passion, with which she took command of any room speaking about the goodness of Jesus Christ.
Braggette was a graduate of Berea High School, where she played the clarinet in the marching band. After high school, she pursued a career as a hair stylist, graduating from Chris Logan/Dudley’s School of Cosmetology. Braggette had much success in the field, having a full clientele list and working independently for more than 20 years. However, her passion for the arts still tugged at her heart. At age 40, Braggette enrolled in Clayton State University where she would earn a Bachelor of Arts in Performing Arts. She graduated summa cum laude, starred in a play, and become a playwright. She also had the opportunity to be a featured model for a clothing company for plus-size women.
Braggette leaves to cherish her memory, her lovely mother, Barbara Beaty Sullivan and step-father, Leon Sullivan of Greenville, SC; brother, Jayvius Markeise Johnson of Greenville, SC; step-brother and sister, Cornelius Tate of Anderson, SC and Denise Blackmon of Greenville, SC; nieces, Angel and Jayuanna Johnson of Laurens, SC and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, other relatives and friends.
Near the end, love found Braggette in a special friendship of Harrold Denton. The family would like to acknowledge the many children, clients, and friends whom Braggette loved dearly.
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My daughter, Braggette, you were a big girl, with a big smile, and a bigger heart. I know you are now with God. You were such a blessing. I am so grateful for your life and share in your journey. I will miss you every day and carry you in my heart until we meet again.
Love, Mom
My sister, words cannot express how much I miss you. A piece of my heart is with you now. I will make you proud and take care of Mom. I love you.
Your brother, Jayvius