Rita F. Johnson

Although, she was born in Dayton, Ohio, Rita was a Kentucky girl at heart. Her parents hailed from Irvine, Kentucky and some of her best childhood memories were spent on the farm with her grandparents. She was always proud of her roots and often told people she was honored to be a “briar hopper”.

Rita was destined to be a teacher and she knew at a young age that she was called to teach. She graduated from Northridge High School and Wright State University where she received her teaching degree in English and History. She taught for 36 years at Miamisburg City Schools, retiring in 2008.

Rita’s passion for bluegrass music led her to host The Country Jamboree a popular radio show on WYSO in the late 1970’s. She enjoyed hosting live bands like the Country Gentlemen and the Hot Mud Family. Traveling to bluegrass music festivals was one of her favorite hobbies.

Rita married in 1984 and had a daughter, Jenna Maria, in June of 1987. Jenna is Rita’s pride and joy and she loved being her mother most of all. Rita taught Jenna to read at age 4 and they shared a love of books from then on. Rita often helped behind the scenes doing makeup, hair and costumes for the numerous musicals in which Jenna participated. She enjoyed being a “stage mom” and would help out in any way she could.

Rita was a beloved Nana to Andrew Carson and Everleigh Renaye. She had a special bond with Drew and he would often drift off for a nap in her lap while she told him Bible stories. Rita gave Everleigh her name. One day she saw an Everly Brothers CD and thought that it would make a pretty name for a baby girl. 4 years after she suggested the name the Lord blessed her with a granddaughter!

Rita was preceded in death by her father Huley “Dude” Johnson, mother Mavis Johnson, and brother Gene Johnson.

Rita is survived by her daughter Jenna (Andrew) Clericus, grandchildren Andrew and Everleigh, numerous extended family, and by her best friends Sheila Clark and Jean Hill.

Rita will be remembered for her strong moral compass, her unwavering love for her family and friends and standing up for what was right even in times of trouble.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Dayton Dream Center (daytondreamcenter.org) or Hospice of Dayton (ohioshospice.org).

She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her. A memorial service to honor her life will be held at the Tobias Funeral Home Belmont Chapel on April 15, 2024 at 6:00 p.m., with a memorial visitation to begin at 4:00 p.m.