Johnie Violet Blue

Johnie Violet Biue (90) died May 12th in her Destin home, surrounded by her
family. She was born February 11, 1933, in Red Level, AL to Thomas Alton and
Easter Cross Whiddon. She resided in Crestview, FL, and Pensacola, FL.
Following her marriage to Ferrell Lloyd Blue, Sr., she settled in Baker, FL where
together they raised their four children. For years they owned and operated
Blue's Garage where she served as bookkeeper, backup mechanic and
sometimes even drove the tow truck.

In 1994, Johnie relocated to Destin where she began many years of making the
world around her more beautiful, through public service, gardening, and creative
needle work. Her cross-stitch and embroidery often became framed works of art.
Never one to be idle, she crocheted scores of baby blankets for family, charities,
and hospital nurseries. Her love of flowers was legendary. She was especially
fond of planting patches of violets anywhere she could find a spot, earning an
award for her beautiful yard from the City of Destin. Johnie became an
accomplished bowler as a member of a local bowling league. She adored her pet
bird, Buddy, who brightened her days. But above all, she loved to dance.
Johnie took great joy in working with children as a teacher's aide at Destin
Elementary for nine years, where she was "Nana" to a generation of students.
She was the "Honorary Grand Marshall" of Destin's Christmas Parade in 2000
and was voted Destin's Senior Citizen of the Year in 2007. She also served her
community as a volunteer at the Destin History and Fishing Museum.
She was preceded in death by Ferrell, her husband of 49 years, her brothers,
Chet and Bob Whiddon, her sister, Betsy Webb, her parents, and her grandson,
Shannon Benjamin Blue.

Johnie leaves behind to cherish her memory: her children Sandra Rushing
(Rick), Fran Tarter (Roger), Lloyd Blue (Alexa), and Levy Blue (Kathy);
Grandchildren: Chip Tarter (Robin), Laura Tarter, Etienne Lambert, Kathleen
Goebel (Ed), April Blue, Marla Tomlinson (Don), Chase Rushing (Samantha),
Emerson Blue and Poppy Blue; Great-grandchildren Alexandria and Ryen
Goebel, Ashleigh Blue, River Tomlinson, Finley Tarter, and Penelope Rushing, as
well as, many much-loved nieces and nephews. Her beloved "adopted' son,
Rubin Watson (Cindy). Pete Pearman, her dearest friend, along with a multitude
of others.

In lieu of flowers please make memorial donations to Alaqua Animal Refuge.