09/05/2026
HONORING FANNIE JOHNSON. Committed to serving others, Fannie Johnson, executive director of L.O.V.E.'s Kitchen, died Friday, Sept. 4. Johnson spearheaded a program that offered thousands of meals and comfort to the less fortunate in the community.
A Meridian Community College alumna and Hall of Fame member who dedicated her life to serving others, Johnson is remembered for the compassion she demonstrated daily and her devotion to public service for more than 40 years.
"Fannie was one of the most wonderful, selfless, and special servants I've known," said Meridian Community College President Dr. Tom Huebner. "She served faithfully countless number of people, and her legacy will live on in the people she served and in the community she strengthened."
Prior to studying at MCC, Johnson served her country as a veteran of the U.S. Army and Army Reserves, joining the military at 17 years old. She would go on to be awarded the prestigious Joint Service Commendation Award while serving at NATO headquarters in Belgium. After seeing the world, she returned to her home state to gain additional training.
Johnson earned her associate degree from MCC in 2004, studying in the Hotel and Restaurant Management Technology Program. Johnson was an honor graduate of Meridian Community College and member of the Phi Theta Kappa, the international academic honor society for community and junior college students.
"I don't know anything that goes on in Meridian that couldn't get its start at Meridian Community College," she said in an MCC alumni spotlight video. "Meridian Community College helped me put all of my training together ... and I was able to come out in the community and help people with all that I learned," she said of her alma mater. "That degree means something."
Johnson would also donate her time, talent, and treasure to the College; she was on MCC Advisory Committee for the Hotel and Restaurant Management Technology Program.
"For Meridian Community College, Fannie remains a cherished alumna whose life reflected the values of service, generosity, and community. Her example will continue to inspire those who follow," said Dr. Leia Hill, chief of staff, vice president for institutional advancement and operations.
