Rita Byers Johnson

Rita Byers Johnson lived a long and blessed life. She passed away in Hot Springs, Arkansas, on June 28 at the age of 94.

Rita was born in Knobel, Arkansas, to Don and Hilda Byers. The middle child among seven sisters, she attended boarding school in Arcadia, Missouri, before going on to secretarial school in Nashville, Tennessee.

She began working for General Motors, where she met her future husband and the love of her life, Vaughn Johnson. Together they had two sons, Vaughn W. Johnson Jr. and Donald Byers Johnson.

After several company moves, the family settled on Riverdale Road in Memphis, Tennessee. The family enjoyed camping and spending time at their Snow Lake cabin in Mississippi. They also treasured the large Byers family reunions held at Mountain Harbor Resort and Petit Jean Lodge in Arkansas.

After her husband’s passing in 2013, Rita moved with her son Don to Hot Springs, Arkansas, in 2018. She enjoyed boating on Lake Hamilton and taking in the surrounding mountain views.

Her days often began with a Honey Bun and a cup of tea. She then worked through crossword books, watched game shows, and spoiled one of the many dogs she loved throughout her life.

She is survived by her sons Vaughn (Junior) Johnson & wife Amy, Don Johnson & husband Howard, Justin Barnett, sisters Celeste DiMatteo and Judith Fanning, and many nieces and nephews.

A private committal service will be held at a future date at her home church Our Lady of Perpetual Help (OLPH) in Germantown.