Rita Joyce Johnson

Family will receive friends on Monday, March 2, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. until time of service at 11:00 a.m. at St. John AME Church, 7700 Crosswoods Drive, Columbus, OH 43235. Interment: Glen Rest Memorial Estate.

In Loving Memory of Rita Joyce Crampton Johnson

Rita Joyce Crampton Johnson was born on August 16, 1931, in Columbus, Ohio. She was the first of two daughters born to Orville and Virginia Ware Crampton. Rita was preceded in death by her husband, Harold; her parents, Orville and Virginia; her sister, Janet L. Hutchinson; and her grandson, De'Leon Johnson.

Rita was christened at St. Paul AME Church by Reverend Williams, with Charles Method and Rosetta Reese as her godparents. She embraced Christian discipleship at the young age of twelve and was an active participant in Sunday School throughout her life.

Rita began her education in the Columbus Public School system. She continued her studies at the University School located on the campus of The Ohio State University for her junior and senior high school years, which was an experience she treasured. Later, after her children were in school, Rita attended The Ohio State University.

Rita met Harold Johnson through a mutual friend, shortly after he returned from service in the U.S. Army where he was stationed in the Philippine Islands. Their connection quickly blossomed, and in 1948, they were married in Greenup, Kentucky. Together, they had three children: Asenath Marie, Cheryl Lynn, and Harold Wesley. Rita and Harold shared a special relationship that lasted for 72 years, until Harold's passing on May 11, 2020.

In 1962, Rita and Harold purchased land on St. Clair Avenue, added an open-air market stand, and began selling produce as a family business involving their children and Pete, a nephew. They later constructed a building on the property, establishing Harold Johnson & Son Farm Market, which specialized in fresh produce, country meats, and Christmas trees during the holiday season. They subsequently opened and operated two other locations: Harold Johnson & Son Farm Market and Harold's University Farm Market which was built on the farmland where Harold was born. The latter location was their pride and joy. The family retired the business in 1995.

Rita and Harold were well matched, not only as partners in business, but also in life. Rita would often say, "We've had it all. We both had a deep and abiding faith in God. We've been best friends, lovers, parents, business partners, grandparents, traveling companions and confidants!"

Rita was an active member of St. Paul AME, serving in several leadership roles. She was a coordinator of the Stewardess Boards, a member of Stewardess Board #3, and a leader within the Dolliettes. She loved attending Sunday School and was a regular at Tuesday evening Bible Study. In 2019, she transferred her membership to St. John AME Church under Reverend Dr. Jermaine D. Covington, remaining active until her and Harold's health declined.

In her younger years, Rita was known for her stylish dress, stiletto high heels, and striking appearance. She was an excellent cook, famous for sweet potato pies, homemade rolls, canned home-grown fruits and vegetables and a mouth-watering tuna fish casserole.

Rita brought joy and laughter to those around her with an easy laugh and bright smile. She exemplified one of her favorite poems, "The Smile Starter," and made it a practice to spread smiles wherever she went. The poem's opening lines, "if you feel a smile begin, don't leave it undetected. Let's start an epidemic quick and get the world infected!" reflected her cheerful spirit.

Rita's positive attitude extended to her social life. She was a member of the Regalettes Club, a group formed during high school. The surviving members still gather for lunch or dinner once or twice each year, maintaining their lifelong friendships.

On Friday, February 20, 2026, Rita Joyce Crampton Johnson entered eternal rest. She leaves to cherish her memory her three children, daughters Asenath Johnson Simpson and Cheryl L. Johnson; son Harold Wesley Johnson (Rossalyn); seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren and one great-great granddaughter; Juanita Hodge aka "Duckie", her lifelong sister/friend; the St. Paul & St. John AME church families; and many other relatives and friends.