I am so sad and heartbroken to hear this. Johnnie recently helped me obtain needed equipment to continue my work at Children's Medical Services. She was wonderful to work with, and more importantly a great and compassionate human being. I will always be thankful for getting to know her briefly as we worked together over these past few months. I too will miss her and know our community has lost a wonderful advocate. Norine From: tabi-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx [mailto:tabi-bounce@xxxxxxxxxxxxx] On Behalf Of Sila Miller Sent: Thursday, October 30, 2014 8:31 PM To: tabi@xxxxxxxxxxxxx Subject: [tabi] Johnnie Slaton - A True Advocate Good evening All, It is with a heavy heart that I relay the sad news of Johnnie Slaton's untimely passing. This is not only a great loss for Tallahassee and her citizens who are blind but for the local chapter of the National Federation of the Blind (NFB). Johnnie apparently passed away in the early morning hours today. She had suffered several strokes, one of which was responsible for the loss of her eye sight. She was feeling poorly yesterday but in true "Johnnie fashion" was putting off going to Urgent Care until she completed tying up some loose ends. She left an enthusiastic voicemail for a co-worker-shortly before the time of her death-excited that she'd acquired some needed equipment and happy about how much it was going to help in accomplishing yet more work. Johnnie was one of the most sincere and committed people I know. She was passionate in her quest to bring about equality and level the playing field for people who are blind/visually impaired. She supported not only NFB but reached out a hand of friendship, cooperation and support to Tallahassee Council of the Blind. She had no time to waste and seized every opportunity to advocate, educate and build relationships to further the cause of making life better for people without eye sight. I have yet to come to terms with the void she's left. To say she will be missed doesn't touch how deep this loss is. I cannot imagine how grieved her loved ones are. I just talked to her and am glad for every conversation, for every event we worked together and for the friendship we forged. God rest you, advocate, friend, crusader, lady, caring human, over-comer, Johnnie. You were an example to all and your memory will live on. With sympathy for us all and in highest regard for Johnnie, I end with what she loved to say, "Bravo!" for the work you did while here on this earth. "Bravo!" for the rich legacy/example you've left us with. God rest you and comfort your family and friends, Love, Sila