Obituary for Margaret Marie (Benson) Johnson

Margaret Marie (Benson) Johnson, fondly called “Socky” by her family and friends, was born on August 23, 1926, in Merchantville, New Jersey, to the late Samuel Edward Benson Sr. and Mary Ellen (Still) Benson. She peacefully departed this life on October 3, 2025, at the blessed age of 99.

Margaret attended Merchantville School and, at an early age, gave her life to Christ. Her faith and dedication were unwavering as she became a lifelong, faithful member of Asbury United Methodist Church in Merchantville, NJ. Over the years, she served her church family in numerous roles — as a Senior Choir member, Usher Board member, member of the Women’s Society, Care Ministry (Lay Pastor), Pastor Parish Committee, Communion Steward, and in the Kitchen and Dining Room whenever needed. Her selfless spirit and willingness to serve left a lasting imprint on her church community and all who knew her.

Margaret’s work ethic was second to none. She began her working years in housekeeping alongside her Aunt Alice, affectionately known as “Dutch Cleanser.” Later, she was employed at Campbell’s Soup in Camden, NJ, and went on to retire from Curtis Young in Pennsauken, NJ, where she served as a supervisor. Her strong leadership, diligence, and sense of responsibility were hallmarks of her character.

On June 24, 1946, Margaret married the love of her life, the late Edward Sylvester Johnson. Their union was a beautiful testament to love and partnership, built on mutual respect, faith, and family. Together, they raised a loving family, nurturing their children with wisdom, discipline, and unconditional love.

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Edward, her son Douglas “Dougie,” and her dear siblings Harry (Margaret “Peggy”), Samuel (Vivian), Mary “Sis” (Louis), Roland “Sug” (Connie), Phyllis (Sidney), Karl “Nicky” (Irene “Chickie”), Helen, Ruth “Ruthie” (Paul), John (Merida), Donald (Margaret “Peggy”), Robert “Bobby” (Mary “Pinky”), Judith “Judy” (Luby), Wallace “Wally” (Ester), and Verna.

She leaves to cherish her precious memory her children: Linda, Ellen (Elmer “Worm”), Phyllis (John), and Bradley “Brad” (Portland). Her legacy continues through her grandchildren: Felicia (Ellis), Shantee’ (Duane), Erika, Jessica, Kristina, Christen, Elijah, Sydney, and Courtney; her great-grandchildren: Jayden, Kristian, Jianna, Camille, and Iris; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and friends who loved her dearly.

Margaret’s life was one of faith, family, service, and grace. She found joy in simple things — music, fellowship, and caring for others — and was a pillar of strength and love for generations of her family. Her gentle wisdom, kind words, and unshakable faith will forever live in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know her.