Couretta Michelle, 48, known to friends as “smoke” transitioned to her heavenly home on January 2, 2018 in Columbia, South Carolina.

Couretta was born to the late Mack B. “The Bull” Johnson and Christine Cooksey Johnson, in DeRidder, LA on January 13, 1969.  She was the twelfth of thirteen siblings.  She was preceded in death by two brothers:  Clay Johnson (DeRidder), and Elmer “Big E” Johnson (DeRidder).

At an early age, Couretta united with Starlight Missionary Baptist Church, until she enlisted with the United Sates Army in September of 1988. Sergeant First Class, Couretta, faithfully served her country for 24 years.  On August 9, 1991, Couretta married her love Keith Sirmans, and from this marriage, Courey Mack was born – the love of both their lives.  After retirement, she continued her education to obtain a Bachelor’s Degree.   Couretta was a great athlete.  Her mother taught her the importance of good health which enhanced her passion for track.  Couretta ran in numerous Boston Marathon events.

Couretta leaves to cherish her memory, her son, Courey Mack Sirmans, Savannah, GA, his father, Keith Sirmans, seven sisters:  Vernell (Al) Howard, Valdosta GA, Clementine Johnson, Killeen, TX, Sylvia D. (Harry L.) Hoggard, III, DeRidder, LA, Veronica (Kelvin) Higgins, El Paso, TX, Jeannette Johnson, Richmond, VA, Julia Johnson, DeRidder, LA, Eurica Johnson, Fresno, TX; three brothers:  Marvin Johnson, Albuquerque, NM, Evan (EC) Curtis, DeRidder, LA, Leonard “Turk” Johnson, DeRidder, LA; a special DEVOTED niece, Tausha Terrell West, Stone Mountain, GA, and a host of other nephews, nieces, cousins and friends.

Service will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2018 at 11:00 AM at Sweet Home Baptist Church in DeRidder, LA.  Burial will follow at Old Cypress Cemetery in Rosepine, LA. Pastor Keith Stevenson will officiate.