Johnnie Ruth King was born on September 15, 1950 in Mt. Pleasant, Texas. She was the first of two children born to Charnell Thomas and Ruby Lee Thomas. She attended St. Peter's Catholic School and Booker T. Washington High School. She graduated from high school in 1969 with a cosmetology license.

Johnnie accepted Christ in 1955 at the age of five (5). She was baptized by Rev. S.G. Gooden, and became a member of Pilgrim Rest Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. During her early years of membership, she served on the Usher Board. She enjoyed the music ministry.

On December 18, 1970, Johnnie and John W King, Jr. were united in holy matrimony and from this union two children were born: John, III and Kendra.

Johnnie spent many years in the customer service industry. She retired from UT Southwestern Medical Center in June of 2017, after 13 years of employment. She was previously employed at TXU (formally Dallas, Power, and Light and TU Electric) for over 30 years. Throughout her career she gained many lifelong friends.

Johnnie was affectionately known for her love of cooking and baking. She enjoyed going fishing and hosting family gatherings. Most of all she loved her grandchildren.

Johnnie was preceded in death by her parents, Charnell Thomas and Ruby Lee Thomas; son John W King, III; and Great-Granddaughter Alana King.

Her memories will be cherished by her: husband John King, Jr.; daughter Kendra King; grandsons John King, IV, Joaquin Velasquez, and Jael Velasquez; granddaughter Chantavia King; great-granddaughter Elicia King; brother Charles Thomas (Gloria Dale); daughter-in-love Tara Lovette; nephew Alonzo Lewis; great-nephew Christian Lewis; a host family and friends.