Honoring Her Life and Sacrifice Ten Years Later
On July 16, 2026, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation joins the Texas Department of Criminal Justice and the corrections community across the nation in remembering Corrections Officer IV Mari Anne Johnson on the tenth anniversary of her End of Watch.
Officer Johnson dedicated seven years to serving with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, quietly carrying out one of the most demanding and dangerous professions in public service. Every shift, she stood between society and those who had committed serious crimes, helping ensure the safety of both her fellow officers and the public.
In the early morning hours of July 16, 2016, Officer Johnson was working inside the Robertson Unit in Abilene, Texas. At approximately 3:00 a.m., fellow officers found her unresponsive near the prison’s kitchen after she had been violently assaulted by an inmate assigned to work in that area.
Her fellow officers immediately initiated lifesaving measures before she was transported to Hendrick Medical Center, where she was pronounced deceased.
The inmate responsible was later convicted of her murder and sentenced to death.
Following Officer Johnson’s death, the Texas Department of Criminal Justice reflected on the tremendous responsibility carried by correctional professionals every day.
Executive Director Brad Livingston stated:
“Correctional officers have one of the most difficult jobs in all of state government protecting the public from dangerous individuals. Each day thousands of men and women in gray are carrying out that critical mission. This is a tragic reminder that carrying out that mission can lead to the ultimate sacrifice. Ms. Johnson made the ultimate sacrifice to keep this state safe. She will never be forgotten.”
Chairman Dale Wainwright of the Texas Board of Criminal Justice added:
“Remember their acts of unselfishness, remember their many acts of courage, and remember the dedication and commitment demonstrated every day by correctional officers.”
Those words remain just as meaningful today.
Officer Johnson’s murder served as a heartbreaking reminder of the risks correctional professionals face every day. While much of their work occurs behind secure walls and away from public view, correctional officers routinely confront violence, uncertainty, and danger while protecting the communities they serve.
Behind the uniform was a woman whose greatest legacy extended far beyond the walls of a correctional institution.
Mari Anne Johnson was a devoted mother, a proud grandmother, a beloved sister, and a cherished friend and coworker. She was the loving mother of four children and the proud grandmother of Corrine, Madison, Cassandra, and Collin. Those who knew her remember a woman whose life was defined not only by service, but by the love she shared with her family and everyone fortunate enough to know her.
For seven years, she faithfully served the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, reporting for duty each day with the commitment and professionalism expected of a correctional officer. She accepted the responsibility of protecting others, knowing the risks that came with the profession she chose.
As we mark the tenth anniversary of her End of Watch, we remember not only the sacrifice she made but the life she lived. We honor the mother her children loved, the grandmother whose legacy lives on through her grandchildren, the sister who was deeply cherished, and the correctional professional whose dedication helped keep the people of Texas safe.
Today, the Correctional Peace Officers Foundation proudly remembers Corrections Officer IV Mari Anne Johnson. Though her watch ended on July 16, 2016, her legacy continues through her family, the colleagues who served beside her, and a corrections profession that will never forget her courage and sacrifice.
End of Watch
Corrections Officer IV Mari Anne Johnson
Texas Department of Criminal Justice – Correctional Institutions Division
July 16, 2016
“Taking Care of Our Own” means ensuring that those who gave everything in the line of duty are never forgotten.