A mother who spoke with the man who murdered her son shares her extraordinary journey of forgiveness and reconciliation. She also discusses coping with Lewy Body Dementia and the impact she has had on others through her healing groups for mothers who have lost their children to violence.
Mary Johnson Roy found forgiveness and developed an unlikely bond with the man who killed her son.
Mary Johnson Roy continues to have a positive impact on others through her healing groups for mothers.
Deep dives
Mary Johnson Roy's Dedication to Supporting Grieving Mothers
Mary Johnson Roy has been supporting mothers who have lost children to homicide. She lost her own son to a homicide in 1993, which motivated her to help others through their grief. She visited Ose Israel, the man who killed her son, in prison and found forgiveness. This experience led Mary to start the organization From Death to Life, providing healing groups for mothers on both sides of a tragedy and promoting forgiveness.
Mary Johnson Roy and Ose Israel's Unlikely Bond
Mary Johnson and Ose Israel, the man who killed her son, developed an unlikely bond after meeting in prison. Through their conversations, Mary saw Ose's humanity and forgave him. Their relationship grew to the point where they live next door to each other and support one another. Their story gained national and international attention, leading them to share their message of love and forgiveness at various venues, including churches, synagogues, prisons, and conferences.
Mary Johnson Roy's Impact and Battle with Lewy Body Dementia
Despite dealing with Lewy Body Dementia, Mary Johnson Roy continues to have a positive impact on others. She runs healing groups for mothers, providing them with support and encouragement. Her illness has affected her husband, Ed, who has become her primary caregiver. They cherish the moments they have together and find strength in their love and companionship. Mary's influence and legacy continue to inspire and bring hope to those she has touched.
Mary Johnson-Roy first came to StoryCorps in 2011 to speak with Oshea Israel, the man who murdered her son. In the latest episode from our special series celebrating StoryCorps' 20th anniversary, we'll share updates on a conversation none of us imagined would happen back when StoryCorps started.