Karol (Johnson) Chesser

Karol Johnson Chesser, affectionately known as “Totsie,” passed away peacefully on November 8, 2025, at her home on Sandy Wood Court in Madison, Alabama, at the age of 90. Born on August 6, 1935, in Shelby County, Alabama, Karol was the daughter of the late Jeff and Ethel Johnson.

Karol began her professional journey at Hayes Aircraft Corporation in Birmingham, Alabama, where she worked for five years before dedicating her life to her family as a devoted mother and homemaker. Her life was marked by perseverance, faith, and love—she even survived a frightening attempted robbery in the mid-1970s, a testament to her strength and courage.

A proud and devout Christian, Karol found joy in her faith and her church family at Mount Zion Baptist Church in Huntsville. She treasured her church community and delighted in participating in church activities. Karol’s love for adventure led her to go parasailing in her late 60s, a reflection of her spirited nature. She loved nature, music, and especially playing the piano to entertain others. Peacocks were her favorite animals, a fitting symbol for her colorful and graceful spirit.

Known for her outgoing personality and dry wit, Karol never met a stranger. She was kindhearted, generous, and always ready to help anyone in need. Her proudest moments were the births of her children and the joy of witnessing her grandchildren’s arrivals, Brook, Conner, JJ, Jadyn, Anastasiia, Tymur, Jesse and Jessica.

Karol is survived by her loving children, Sonya Chesser, Jay Chesser, and Les Chesser and her grandchildren.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her brothers Almon and Jefftee Johnson, and her sisters Maurie Triplett, Bernell Holcombe, and Yemp Johnson Price.

A celebration of Karol’s life will be held at Mount Zion Baptist Church, 228 Mt. Zion Road, Huntsville, Alabama, on November 12, 2025, with visitation from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m., followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. and graveside rites afterwards. Her favorite verse, John 3:16, reminds us of the faith that guided her life and the love she shared so freely.

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