Ina "Tootsie" Louise Johnson

Known as Tootsie to most of her friends, Mama to her three children, and Memaw to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Ina Louise Johnson passed away unexpectedly at the age of 93 on Saturday, August 3rd, 2024. Ina was surrounded by family at her home in Floral City at the time of her peaceful passing.

Starting from humble beginnings within a true “Southern Hospitality” family of Hardee County, Ina will be remembered for her kind, caring nature, and stories of a time all but forgotten. “As a young girl, I remember shelling peas for supper, and I never knew how poor we were,” one of Ina’s granddaughters recalls her saying. Ina’s father was a working cowboy who moved the family across the state from one cowboy camp to the other. Ina grew up without electricity or refrigeration; something nobody these days can imagine surviving without, especially in Florida. Ina’s strong work ethic was a driving force behind getting the family business off the ground. She cut watermelons out of the fields, and packed squash into her backpack in those early days.

Ina’s family has fond memories of large gatherings and elaborate decorations during the holidays. Ina’s key lime pies have become a family tradition. Ina loved fishing, traveling, and even four-wheeling with the grandkids through the woods at “The Camp”. Ina was fortunate to have many adventures over the years. She was always there for us with open arms and will be missed so much. Go fly with the angels, Mama.

Predeceased By:

Spouse: Ernest Lee Johnson, Jr. (Johnny)

Mother: Mildred Washington Skipper

Father: William Mabry Skipper

Brother: Sid Skipper, Howard Skipper

Sister: Golda Snyder

Grandchildren: Adam Barry Udell, Douglas Lee Johnson, Jr.

Survivors:

Children: Douglas Lee Johnson (Debbie), Linda Sue Johnson, Gregory Alan Johnson

Grandchildren: Jennifer Hendry, Guy Masters, Ashley Shigley, Brittany Johnson

Great grandchildren: Byron Hendry, Ralph Hendry, Colt Jampole, Levi Shigley, Eric Johnson, Annabelle Vazquez, Tabious Vazquez, Elijah Vasquez, Joanna Vasquez

"Yesterday is history, Tomorrow is a mystery, Today is a gift that is why it is called the PRESENT🎀."

A Visitation for Tootsie will be held Saturday, August 17, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Hodges Funeral Home at Lee Memorial Park, 12777 State Road 82, Fort Myers, FL 33913. A Funeral Service will occur Saturday, August 17, 2024 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM, 12777 State Road 82, Fort Myers, FL 33913. A Graveside service will occur Saturday, August 17, 2024 from 12:00 PM to 12:30 PM, 12777 State Road 82, Fort Myers, FL 33913.

If you would like to make a donation in memory of Tootsie please consider donating to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, Shriner's Hospital, or a charity of your choice.