Johnie Mae Jones Culbreath was born to the late Mary Ella Graham and John H. Jones on May 30, 1920. After hearting her children's prayers at her bedside she transitioned from her earthly life on September 5, 2016 at the age of 96. Johnie Mae was the youngest of five children. Her siblings Geneva Graham, George Graham, Viola Poole and Robert Graham all preceded her in death.

She was educated in Saluda County, South Carolina where she graduated from Rosenwald School. Johnie Mae was a star athlete in basketball on the 1937 and 1937 championship teams. At an early age Johnie Mae joined Rock Hill Baptist Church in Saluda, South Carolina. She relocated to Philadelphia, PA in 1937. During her time living in the north, she maintained her Baptist membership, the latest being at Miller Memorial, Philadelphia, PA.

In 1937 she joined Celess Culbreath in holy matrimony, who preceded her in death in 1992. To this union were born five children. Johnie Mae was a devoted wife and loving daughter, mother, sister, grandmother, and friend. She had a fulfilling career as a Nursing Assistant and retired in 1976 from Norristown State Hospital in Pennsylvania after 25 years of service. After retirement Celess and Johnie Mae returned to their birthplace of Saluda, SC. She attended Rock Hill Church where she remained a member until she was called home.

Johnie Mae leaves five children to cherish and honor her memory. Sylvester Culbreath of Saluda, SC, Johnie (Mary) Culbreath of Nesmith, SC, Carolyn (Lester) Benn of Hiram, GA, Anita (Alex) Walker of Oreland, PA, and Robert (Karen) Culbreath of Simpsonville, SC; 19 grandchildren (one preceded her in death);39 great-grandchildren; 18 great great-grandchildren and a host of nieces, nephews and cousins who affectionately called her "Aunt Mae"