D. Rae Johnson

Delona Rae Johnson was born July 9, 1936 in Harris County, Texas and died November 25, 2015 at her home in Hot Springs, Arkansas. The daughter of George and Joan Luhning, Rae grew up in rural Garland County helping her father train thoroughbred horses. She was a 1954 graduate of Lakeside High School, where she excelled in all sports. She pursued a career in nursing at St. Louis Jewish Hospital, but her passion for horses drew her back to the racing world. In 1957, she married Johnny Johnson. The couple spent many years working in the thoroughbred industry. At Churchill Downs, Rae earned the nickname, “Kentucky Derby Queen” for her skills in escorting hopefuls from the paddock to the gate. Two of her charges won the coveted race. Her adventures on the racing circuit were well documented. Rae was a talented writer and photographer with work published in several regional publications. Rae opened Jockey Club Gifts, located in Spencer’s Corner in downtown Hot Springs in 1977. The business offered a unique selection of equestrian gifts and artwork. As the arts community in Hot Springs developed in the 80s, Rae’s knowledge was invaluable to the new galleries. She was a gracious hostess and familiar face to all who attended Gallery Walks. Most recently she was on staff at Gallery Central. A curious mind and free spirit directed her to travel extensively, including a solo trip around the world when she was in her seventies. Rae preferred staying in hostels, spending extended periods of time with the locals in order to more completely experience the cultures of the countries she visited. As a result, she made connections all over the globe and loved being able to stay in touch through the internet. Rae will be missed by a multitude of friends she collected and cared for throughout her life. She was preceded in death by her ex-husband Johnny Johnson, and her brother Derl Wayne Green. Survivors include her godchild Kristi Woodall of Hot Springs; her sister, Frances (Pete) Harris of Lufkin, Texas; nieces, Cheryl and Michelle, nephew Charles; step-brother Jim Neihart of Tucson; cousins Tom and Helenanne Butler; and the Colin Dixon clan, her adopted family in Winchester, England. A celebration of her life will be at 1:00 p.m., Thursday, December 3, 2015 at Gross Funeral Home with John McCallum and Scott Gallimore officiating. Memorials can be made to Race Track Chaplaincy of Ark. at 2705 Central Ave, Hot Springs National Park AR 71901-7515. On-line condolences can be conveyed at www.grossfuneralhome.com.