Casandra, affectionately known as "Cassie," "Sandra," "Gigi," or "Momma" by family and friends alike, was born under the April skies of 1964 in Chicago, IL. She entered this world as the youngest of three children to Claude and the late Doris Johnson. On August 12, 2024, she peacefully closed her eyes to join the night sky as a guiding light. She was preceded on this journey by her beloved mother, Doris M. Johnson, and her treasured siblings, Terry and Carmen Johnson.

Cassie's life was a symphony of resilience, insight, and unyielding loyalty. Her journey began at Misericordia Home as an LPN in 1982. She went on to Chicago State University, where she earned her BSN in 1987, followed by the masterful pursuit of an M.S. in maternal/child nursing at the University of Illinois at Chicago in 1992. As a Certified Nurse Midwife, Cassie was a beacon of care and compassion, delivering not just babies but hope, comfort, and love until her retirement in 2015. Even after hanging up her scrubs, her heart remained wide open, extending the same unwavering kindness to everyone she encountered. A proud and dedicated sister of the Order of the Eastern Star, Cassie was a woman of profound grace and service.

But of all her titles, the one she wore most proudly was "Momma." Cassie's world revolved around her daughter, Alexis—a bond so deep, it was as if their hearts beat in tandem. For Alexis, Cassie was more than a mother; she was a best friend, a confidante, and a guiding star in every storm. Together, they navigated life's joys and challenges, their days filled with the warmth of shared laughter during shopping trips, the comfort of watching movies side by side, and the simple pleasures of cooking shows that turned ordinary moments into cherished memories.

Cassie's legacy is carried forward by her loving daughter, Dr. Alexis LaBauex; her husband, Russell LaBauex; her father, Claude Johnson; her nieces, Jenelle and Natasha Johnson; her nephew, Gregory Johnson and his wife, Brittany; her cherished great-niece and great-nephew, Jazmyn Blackburn and Jorden Johnson; and a host of loyal friends.

Cassie's life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and quiet strength. Friends and family are invited to honor her memory and share their stories at a memorial service to be held at a later date. Though she has left this world, the light she brought into it continues to shine brightly in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her. Cassie's spirit—full of unconditional love, joy, and generosity—will forever be a source of inspiration.