Johnnie was born in Pheba, MS, and was a graduate of Maben High School. In 1982 she became a proud Mississippi State graduate with an Accounting degree. Johnnie earned her degree while working for the Vice President of Student Affairs, where she worked for over 10 years.
In 1982, Johnnie and her daughter, Christi, moved to Tulsa, OK. She lived there for 39 years where she earned her CPA, and after working at various firms, opened her own CPA business. After retirement, Johnnie moved back to her hometown of Starkville, where she attended as many sporting events as possible to cheer on her beloved Bulldogs.
Johnnie was an avid sports enthusiast, having played basketball, softball, volleyball and tennis. Any hours not spent playing or watching sports, were spent gardening, traveling, and being with friends and family. She was a generous and compassionate champion of the homeless and various other charities.
Johnnie was preceded in death by her parents John and Mary Harpole, and her brother Jimmy Harpole. She is survived by her daughter Christi Rast Bailey of Starkville, granddaughters Brynn Bailey of Dayton, OH, and Kaci Bailey of Warner Robins, GA, and her great granddaughter Pandora Bailey of Warner Robins, GA; sisters Lavenia Yeatman and Sandra Middleton, both of Starkville and many nieces and nephews.
The family gratefully acknowledges the love, support and prayers of so many during this difficult time. The family would also like to thank Dr. Joshua Black and the OCH ICU nursing staff for their care and compassion, and express appreciation to the First Baptist Church of Starkville.
There will be a Celebration of Life gathering in January, with the date to be announced.
The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations be made in her name to St. Jude’s Hospital, the Oktibbeha County Humane Society or to a special charity of your choice.
