JOHNNY MOLETT

Johnny Molett was born on April 20, 1924, in Yazoo City, Mississippi, the youngest son of Floyd Molett and Littie Tucker Molett.

Johnny was educated in the Mississippi public school system. He later served his country in the United States Army as a cook, receiving an honorable discharge in 1945. For his faithful service, he was awarded the American Campaign Medal and the World War II Victory Medal.

After his military service, Johnny relocated to Indianapolis, Indiana, where he began a long and dedicated career with Reel Valve and Pipe Company as a truck driver. He retired after more than 35 years of loyal service.

On November 27, 1992, Johnny married Lurlene “Lola” Harrison Molett, blending their hearts and families into one. Together, they shared many joyful years of marriage. Their love for children extended far beyond their immediate family. For fifteen years, they opened their hearts and home as foster parents, caring for young children ages two to four. Their nurturing spirit and steadfast love left a lasting impact on every child who passed through their care.  Lola fondly described him as a “lovely man.” Through this union, Johnny came to know Christ and united with Little Bethel Missionary Baptist Church under the founding pastor, Rev. Ollie James Reeves.

A quiet man of deep faith, Johnny loved studying God’s Word. He faithfully served as a Sunday School Teacher, was active in the Laymen’s Ministry, served as an Usher, and sang joyfully in the Men’s Choir. He and Lola were known for their coordinated Sunday attire, always complementing one another with grace and style.  Johnny took great pride in his former Sunday School students—many of whom remained in touch with him through the years, some even serving as his prayer partner. 

An avid gardener, Johnny turned what began as a “Little Red Wagon” garden into a flourishing backyard oasis—a project that began as Lola’s idea but quickly became his passion. He also loved traveling and listening to gospel music, both of which brought him great joy.

On Sunday, October 12, 2025, at the blessed age of 101, Johnny Molett transitioned peacefully into glory. He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter, Johnnella Gude; brother, William “Butch” Howard; and sisters, Mary Molett, Martha Molett, and Florida Molett-Jackson.

Johnny leaves to celebrate his life and legacy his loving and devoted wife, Lurlene; daughter, Felicia Molett; stepson, Kevin Shockley; step daughters, Joann Shockley-Smith, Lexie Shockley-Bowles (Jeffrey), Sharon Shockley-Hill (Jack) and Cassandra Shockley-Sherrod (Vincent); cousins, Iola Johnson and Clara Loneberger both of Yazoo City, MS; bonus daughters and extended caregiver team, Patricia Paschall, Barbara “Bobbie” Woods and Gwen Mitchell; and a host of grandchildren, great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, friends and his Little Bethel Church Family.

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