Obituary of Annette M. Floyd

On a winter day just after the world had celebrated the peace and goodwill of the holiday season, Annette Melinda Johnson was born on December 28, 1943, in Philadelphia, PA. She was the daughter of the late Minnie and Charles Johnson. From the moment Annette entered this world, she brought her own unique light and joy that captivated all who met her. Even as a young child, she had a gentle glow and enduring warmth that touched anyone with a heartbeat. Annette would greet everyone on her block with a bright smile, her friendly nature endearing her to neighbors of all ages. She had a special affinity for the elderly, often taking the time to sit and engage in long conversations with them. During her early years, Annette's family home was a bustling three-story brownstone on 28th Diamond Street, where three generations—grandparents, parents, and children—all lived under one roof. The neighborhood was known for its family-friendly atmosphere and safety, a haven where doors were left unlocked and children played without worry. The Graves were affectionately dubbed the "kidney bean family" by neighbors, a nod to their beloved Tuesday tradition of serving up hearty kidney beans, fluffy biscuits, and savory pork chops. Annette's childhood was filled with joyful experiences, including family outings to Fairmount Park. There, the parents would take the children to spread out blankets and spend the night, a testament to the neighborhood's strong sense of community and safety. Her grandmother, Bertha, would provide them all with gallon jugs to fill with the park's fresh spring water. Annette received her education within the Philadelphia public school system, first attending James G. Blaine Elementary School through the eighth grade, and later graduating from Dobbins Vocational High School in 1961. In the summer of 1975, Annette found a spiritual home at Deliverance Evangelistic Church, where she met Mark Floyd, her future husband. Together, they shared 46 years of marriage, united by love and faith. Annette had many passions, but her greatest was her unwavering commitment to her faith. She dedicated herself to visiting the sick, praying for those in need, and sharing the message of our Lord and Savior with everyone she encountered. Annette even had the honor of witnessing to her primary doctor, guiding him to her faith. Her relentless drive to win souls for Jesus and her virtuous nature made her a living example of the Proverbs 31 woman. Proverbs 31:25-31 describes a woman of strength and dignity, one who speaks with wisdom and cares deeply for her household—a fitting tribute to Annette's life. "She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come. She speaks with wisdom, and faithful instruction is on her tongue. She watches over the affairs of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. Her children arise and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her. Many women do noble things, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gates." Annette dedicated twenty-five years of service as a crossing guard and classroom aide in the Washington Township School District, earning the affection of both students and staff. Previously, she worked at a photography studio, mastering posing techniques and the craft of capturing enduring memories in photographs. Annette, affectionately known as Nettie Poo will be fondly remembered for her boundless kindness, always addressing others as "Doll Baby" with genuine affection. She was a soul without a trace of malice, she was the epitome of kindness and humility. Nettie Poo, inheriting her mother Minnie’s full head of lustrous hair, was always serving looks with her perfectly done makeup, impeccable style and her signature pink nail polish. A whiz in the kitchen, her love for her children and grandchildren was as nourishing as the meals she lovingly prepared. Her favorite ‘Doll Baby,’ though, was Jesus, and it brings comfort to know that she has now joined him in eternal peace. After courageously facing a prolonged illness, Annette's vibrant life came to a peaceful close on March 21, 2024. She leaves to cherish her memory, her beloved husband Mark; her children Terri, Kevin, Karen, and Veronica; her son Gary, who preceded her in death; her grandchildren Majai (son), Sabree, Adenah, Terrell, Bianca, Kevin, Jr., Joseph, and Micah; her sister/cousins, Linda and Wanda; her late brother Calvin; and a host of in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.