Mrs. Johnnie Ruby (Clemmons) Tolbert, age 82, was ushered into Heaven on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at 5:18 p.m. at Lima Memorial Hospital, surrounded by her loving family.

Johnnie was born on October 23, 1943, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, to the late Johnny and Erther (Sibley) Clemmons, who both preceded her in death.

On July 23, 1976, Johnnie was united in marriage to Henry Tolbert Sr., and together they shared many years of love and devotion until his passing in 1994.

Johnnie retired from Ford Motor Company after many dedicated years working on the production line. She was a faithful member of Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, where she proudly served on the Usher Board.

Outside of church, Johnnie lived a vibrant and active life. She was a member of UAW Local 1219, Chatter Box, Bowling Congress, and the NAACP. When she wasn’t busy with her many organizations, she could be found cheering on the Lima Senior Spartans and the Cleveland Browns, tending to her beautiful flower garden, bowling, volunteering at Lima Memorial Hospital, or styling hair—earning her the beloved nickname, “The Jerry Curl Queen.”

Johnnie leaves to cherish her memory her children: four sons, Ronald Clemmons of Columbus, Ohio; Rueben Gayden of Lima, Ohio; Joseph (Melissa) Gayden of Lima, Ohio; Trevor (Sharon) Tolbert of Lima, Ohio; and one daughter, Loretta C. Gayden of Lima, Ohio. She is also survived by 14 grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren; a special cousin, Ruthie Mays; and a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

In addition to her parents and husband, Johnnie was preceded in death by her grandson, Jacob Gayden, and her only sister, Tiveda Fisher.

Homegoing services for Mrs. Johnnie Ruby Tolbert will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m., with Rev. Cleven Jones officiating.

Entombment: Memorial Park 

Services entrusted to: JONES-CLARK FUNERAL HOME, INC.

To order flowers and to offer condolences to the TOLBERT Family, visit www.jonesclarkfuneralhome.com