Dr. Arcelia Marshallene Johnson-Fannin
May 7, 1948 ~ October 30, 2025
Born in:
Linden, Texas
Resided in:
San Antonio, Texas
From humble beginnings in the small East Texas town of Linden, Arcelia is a 2nd generation college graduate who absorbed the teachings, lessons, experiences of her surroundings to become a person who contributed much to our world. From becoming the 1st African American female graduate of Columbia University Pharmacy school, to becoming the 1st African American pharmacist at a 1000 bed NYC hospital, to building a program at FAMU that gave the university its first doctorate degree, her 45-year career continues to touch the lives of thousands.
Dr. Johnson-Fannin received a B.S. in Chemistry from Dillard University, a B.S. in Pharmacy from Columbia University, performed graduate work at NYU and St. John’s University and finished with her doctorate from Mercer University.
In addition to creating a new degree at FAMU, Dr. Johnson-Fannin and her students became involved in what would later be called “health disparities” research. The research they performed in the early 1980s was rejected by the professional community, deemed “biased” because of the race of the researchers. Dr. Johnson-Fannin and her colleagues continued their work and eventually received significant funding. For one seven-year period, she received grants from The Lilly Foundation, The Kellogg Foundation, NIH, and DOE, totaling more than $6,500,000. It is interesting to note that health disparities is one of the most significant concerns in health care today. Dr. Johnson-Fannin carried her talent for teaching and Program development into a variety of venues. She taught in a developing medical school for women in Saudi Arabia and helped develop educational programs for foreign physicians at a large state hospital in Florida. She was also a member of the NAPLEX Review committee that transitioned the pharmacy licensing exam from paper to electronic format.
In 1997, Dr. Johnson-Fannin was selected to head the development of the pharmacy program at Hampton University in Virginia. A decade later, she became the founding dean of the Feik School of Pharmacy at University of the Incarnate Word in San Antonio Texas. With that appointment, Dr. Johnson-Fannin became the first woman and only Black female to be founding dean at two new pharmacy schools.
In 1999, Dr. Johnson-Fannin was designated one of the 50 most influential pharmacists in America. In 2005, she was Highlighted by AETNA as one 12 most highly accomplished African American pharmacists in the USA. She was selected to appear in the inaugural edition of Who’s Who in Black San Antonio. In addition to numerous other awards and recognitions, Dr. Johnson-Fannin is an honored member of the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame, received a COMET award from the San Antonio Women’s Chamber, and in 2018 was selected Alumni of the year by her Alma Mater, Dillard University. She has received accolades and recognitions from numerous organizations such as Top Ladies of Distinction, elected to the Educators Hall of Fame by Phi Delta Kappa, Inc., and been featured in the media from Forida to Virginia, Texas, California, Spain, Argentina, and Brazil. She was active in the American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy, American Pharmacists Association, American Society of Health System Pharmacists, American College of Clinical Pharmacists, and the National Pharmacist Association. She was involved with the community through Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (a Golden Soror with over 50 years of service) and several Board appointments, including Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas; a CHRISTUS Health Corporate Board Committee; a former board member of Communities in Schools; and was the long standing president of the Board of a small nonprofit –Small Beginnings, Big Results—an organization that raised funds to build 53 water wells in Africa and Asia. She is also a life member of NACCP. It is interesting to note that from 2008 to 2016, Drs. Larry and Arcelia were both deans at pharmacy schools, the only such couple in the academy. Just as Dr. Arcelia was recognized by the San Antonio Business Journal as a HealthCare Hero, Dr. Larry received similar recognition from the Utah Business Journal. They are a power-couple who made history together.
Dr. Johnson-Fannin loved to travel. She has visited 42 of the 50 States, including Alaska and Hawaii. She made educational exchange connections with schools in Brazil, Spain, Germany, and Uzbekistan. She has visited Canada, Great Britain, Denmark, The Netherlands, Belgium, Sweden, Finland, Estonia, Russia, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Australia, Israel, Egypt, Turkey, Greece, Italy, Argentina, Mexico, and numerous sites in the Caribbean Islands, Central America, including a trip through the Panama Canal. She lived for over a year in Saudi Arabia teaching at a medical school, which afforded the opportunity to visit several surrounding countries. This may have been the experience that lit the fire for travel and exploration which lasted throughout her life.
Affectionately known as “Dr. J”, Dr. Johnson-Fannin is married to Dr. Larry Fannin, Dean for the Roseman College of Pharmacy of Nevada. The couple is proud of their children: Dr. Ehriel Fannin, a nurse educator and researcher (deceased), and Lawrence Marshall Fannin, a Principal systems engineer with Sandia National Labs in Albuquerque, NM. Survivors include Her brother Don (Vera) Johnson Sr., sister-in-law Vivian Gail Hines, Nephews: Jeffrey (Teresa) Spencer, Brian Spencer, Don (Leonissa) Johnson II, Carey (Naomi) Hines, Gary Hines, Charlie Hines Jr, Nieces: Ahnekii (Robert) Tanner, Adrienne Johnson, Andraya (Vincent) Hibbert, Jasmine (Bryan) Meyers, 6 great nieces, 3 great nephews, and a host of cousins and well-wishers.
Services
Visitation: November 13, 2025 5:00 pm
MeadowLawn Chapel
5611 E. Houston St.
San Antonio, TX United States
78220
www.meadowlawnmemorialpark.com
Ivy Beyond The Wall: November 13, 2025 6:00 pm
MeadowLawn Chapel
5611 E. Houston St.
San Antonio, TX United States
78220
www.meadowlawnmemorialpark.com
Funeral Service: November 14, 2025 10:00 am
MeadowLawn Chapel
5611 E. Houston St.
San Antonio, TX United States
78220
www.meadowlawnmemorialpark.com
Cemetery:
Pleasant Hill Cemetery
CR 1399
Linden, TX United States
78217
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Honoring the Lifelong Contribution of
Dr. Arcelia Marshallene (Dr. J) Johnson-Fannin
May 7, 1948 – October 30, 2025
Whereas, Dr. Arcelia Marshallene (Dr. J) Johnson-Fannin began her distinguished academic career at Florida A&M University’s College of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Institute of Public Health where she played a pivotal role in developing the clinical pharmacy program and establishing the Doctor of Pharmacy curriculum;
Whereas, she served as the first Director of the Pharmacy Degree Program at FAMU and was instrumental in producing the University’s first doctoral-trained pharmacy graduates; reflections flowed in with a few selected excerpts herewith:
“She was a highly intelligent and deeply thoughtful professional whose influence reached far beyond her immediate circle. A gifted mentor, she guided learners and inspired CEO Deans with equal measures of insight and humility. Her questions—always penetrating yet never personal—brought clarity to complex discussions and elevated every conversation she entered. Through her wisdom, grace, and unwavering professionalism, she left an indelible mark on all who had the privilege to know and work alongside her.” Johnnie L. Early, II, PhD, RPh, Fellow NPhA | Honorary Member, American Association of Health-Systems Pharmacists | Director, Pharmacy Accreditation-FAMU CoPPS, IPH
“Over the last few years, Dr. J and I would spend hours at a time talking about everything from curriculum and education to what my children were up to and her many travels and everything in between. She had the most expansive and impressive body of knowledge yet the humblest spirit you might ever encounter. She blessed so many people in so many ways just as a part of her daily walk. She was so elegant, beautiful, and always dressed exquisitely. She had the uncanny ability to strike fear, command respect, and possess the most gentle, eloquent presence simultaneously. She is legendary. A piece of my heart is missing from earth, and it is with her.” Tonya S. Jackson (formerly Martin), PharmD, BCGP, MAEd | Associate Dean for Academic Excellence and Development Associate Professor of Pharmacy Practice | FAMU CoPPS, IPH, NE FLPharmacy Practice Center
“Dr. Arcelia Johnson-Fannin, affectionately known as Dr. J, was one of my favorite professors. She also served as my Dean’s coach for AACP’s Academic Leadership Fellows Program. In my opinion, she was a phenomenal dean, professor, and mentor to many. She will be missed beyond measure.” Marlon S. Honeywell, PharmD | Executive Associate Dean and Professor | FAMU CoPPS, IPH
“Who I am today as a pharmacist, professor, woman, Christian, and mother is greatly due to the influence of “Dr. J.” I will forever be grateful for how she role-modeled professionalism with dignity, poise, confidence, and a no-nonsense but loving attitude. Because of her I and so many others know what “Excellence with Caring” , “looking the part” or being and giving your best with courage looks like. Words can’t express how grateful I am to have had her as not just one of my professors, but as a true mentor, friend, confidante, and cheerleader. Her impact on my life and the world of pharmacy and beyond can’t be described in words. She helped me craft my first of many publications, supported me in my first national professional presentation, and afforded me opportunities and access to the crevices of her private life and thoughts that I will always hold on to. She will always have a place in my heart, and I know that The Lord said, “Well done my good and faithful servant!” Angela M. Hill, Pharm.D., RPh, CRPh, FAACP Professor , Dept. of Pharmacotherapeutics & Clinical Research | Program Director, WE-CARE University of South Florida Taneja College of Pharmacy
From FAMU CoPPS, IPH Interim Dean and Professor, Seth Y. Ablordeppey, Ph.D., “Dr. Johnson-Fannin served as a consultant on our Accreditation Committee, working alongside Dr. Tonya Jackson to help advance the mission of academic excellence within our College. We are forever impacted by her undaunting determination.”
Whereas, her legacy continues to inspire generations of pharmacists, educators, and leaders through her mentorship, scholarship, and unwavering commitment to excellence; Be it resolved, that we honor the life and contributions of Dr. J with deep gratitude and reverence. Therefore, be it finally resolved, that we bow to the sovereign will of God, trusting that we shall meet Dr. Arcelia Marshallene (Dr. J) Johnson-Fannin again—in the joy of the Lord and in the fullness of His matchless mercy.
Lovingly and Prayerfully Submitted,
With Deepest Condolences,
Seth Y. Ablordeppey, Ph.D.
Interim Dean and Professor
My sincere condolences to the Johnson and Fannin Family’s.
Arcelia’s life was the epitome of courage, vision and deep faith, an example worthy of emulation by all who love their fellowmen.
Rest in everlasting peace Arcelia.
You were truly a Trailblazer!
Love,
The Ray Family (Douglas, Pam & Jeremiah)
Love,
Grover Cochran & Family
On behalf of Roseman University, our deepest condolences to the Fannin family. Arcelia was a force in pharmacy education and made substantial contributions to the advancement of the profession of pharmacy. Her wisdom, dignity, and kindness were an exemplar to all who came into contact with her. She will be missed.
Please accept my heartfelt condolences.
UIW was blessed to have Dr. J!
Our family joins you in mourningthe loss of the physical presence of my dear friend. I was blessed to know Arcelia for approximately 60 years, having met her in 1965 when I was a freshman at Dillard and she was a sophomore. Later when I graduated in 1969, we reunited in New York and became roomates for 2 years while she was attended Columbia University. We lost touch for some years but reunited after I lost my house in New Orleans in 2005 and she called to invite me to come stay at her house for as long as I needed. Later, when I visited San Antonio with my friend and my granddaughter, we became even closer. My grandaughter, Krissy loved Arcelia as I did, but she was especially fond of Ehriel, who went out of her way to entertain her. When Ehriel let us, we traveled to Linden to see Ehriel one final time.
Despite her reputation as being brilliant and a top pharmacist, teacher, and champion of many charitable causes, Arcelia was very humble. Like many others, we will remember her as being a faithful friend and confidante. I thank God for allowing me to know her these many years. Until we are all reunited with Arcelia and Ehriel, I pray the memories of the happy times spent together will bring comfort to your hearts as you begin the journey of learning to live without her physical presence.
Sincerely,
Lois and Henrietta, Kristen and Jackie
When I arrived at UIW to start the SOM in 2014, Dr. J became my UIW mentor dean. She kindly and generously shared the wisdom she’d gained as the FSOP founding dean which significantly facilitated our startup process. I cherished our conversations and prayer time together in those early years of the SOM’s development. Please accept my deepest condolences.
My deepest condolences to the Johnson and Fannin families. Dr. Johnson-Fannin uplifted countless lives. She was a great friend, visionary, trailblazer and an accomplished educator, who inspired numerous individuals. Her incredible legacy will live on. It is an honor for me to have known her. I will forever miss her. Arcelia, may you rest in perfect peace.
Arcelia wore many hats during her lifetime and, from my view, she wore them well. She was a professional tour de force in addition to being a genuine down to earth person who touched many lives. May God bless her memory and provide comfort to each member of the Johnson and Fannin families.
I’m still here, and my heart aches knowing her light is gone, yet profoundly grateful for the lessons she imparted and the example she set. Her spirit, humor, and wisdom continue to resonate through all of us as we share her stories and honor the lasting impact she made on our lives, our community, and the world of pharmacy.
THANK YOU, Dr. J and God bless your journey home to the celestial heavens!
Beyond her incredible drive and determination, she had a heart of gold. Her leadership, passion, and compassion left a lasting impression on me, and I will always remember her as an amazing role model who inspired those around her to do their best work in service of others.
My heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues, and all who had the honor of knowing her. Her legacy will continue to shine through the lives she touched and the students she so deeply cared for.
With deepest sympathy,
Arcelia’s middle name, “Marshallene”, was a tribute to our grandfather Marshall Northcutt, her mother’s father. He was a leader in his community and was proud of the achievements of his children. Needless to say he would be extremely proud of the numerous accomplishments of his namesake granddaughter. She also honored him by giving his name to her son. During our years growing up in East Texas, we learned the importance of family and no one more so than Arcelia. When she gave remarks on behalf of the family at her uncle’s (my father’s) funeral, she made the event less sad as she humorously reminisced about the joys of her experiences with our family. We were blessed to have her. Rest in peace our sister/cousin.
Thank you, Dr. J for embracing me when I moved to San Antonio and for the wisdom you shared with me and many others! May you rest in heaven in the arms of our Heavenly Father!
My condolences and prayers go out to Dr. J’s family. I am saddened to hear of her passing. I knew her from working with her while on faculty with the Ila Faye Miller School of Nursing and she was dean of the brand-new School of Pharmacy at the University of the Incarnate Word. She was a role model for any young person to emulate. Our other common likeness is that we both grew up in the same next of the woods (Piney Woods of Deep East Texas). Although, I didn’t meet her until 2005 when she came to UIW. I was so proud of my “homey.” We often shared stories of similar experiences and knew some of the same people. She will be missed. Gone too soon; but God loved her more.
Rest well as you have certainly earned your seat at the table.
Sandra T. (Soror and bonus niece).
Prayers of strength, comfort and peace to Larry, Marshall, Don and Family.
Growing up across the street from Arcelia was a joy and a blessing. Even though she had a few years on me she always made me feel I was special to her. Having sleepovers at her home and later the drives we would have when she came home from college (telling me all about college life and all the “stuff”lol) was a delight.
Later, she and her family proved to be devoted guardians to our youngest child as we sent her 1400 miles away from home to attend college at Hampton University.
She was always a faithful and truthful friend showing up at events and making everyone smile as she reflected on days that made us Cass County folks who we are today.
She will be missed terribly. May her wonderful legacy live on.
Rest in the arms of Jesus,
Love always,
Elaine and Family
The hourglass she gave me for my 50th birthday still sits on my desk, a quiet reminder of her gift of time.
Rest in peace, Dr. J. Your legacy lives on.
Rest in peace 2nd cousin I can remember when i came to visit you in Hampton Va. It was my pleasure to see you along with my great aunt your mother. Rest in peace cousin.
Love you,
Tamera Spencer