Rita Lee Johnson

Rita Lee Johnson, known warmly by her nickname, Sam, passed away peacefully on September 1, 2026. Born on June 3, 1945, in Cullman, Alabama, Rita was known for her quick wit, generosity, and creative spirit. Her vibrant personality and infectious sense of humor filled every room she entered, leaving a lasting impression on all who had the privilege of knowing her. Rita's love and dedication to her family was her driving force, always putting their needs above her own. Her humor, combined with her honesty, made her the heart of the family, the one who could always be counted on to tell it like it is with a touch of humor.

Rita's journey as an Air Force dependent, first as a child and then as wife, took her to many places, from Turkey to Okinawa, Japan, and several stops in between. Each location added a layer to the rich tapestry of her life, offering her a wealth of experiences and memories. Her adventurous spirit was matched only by her boundless generosity and unflinching honesty.
In 2006, she moved to California for a fresh start and to assist in caring for 3 of her 5 beloved grandchildren. She was a woman who wore many hats, from being a homemaker to medical assistant, to managing a convenience store, to providing home healthcare. In each of these roles, she brought her unique blend of wit and compassion, making a significant difference in the lives of many.

In 2018, Rita moved to Kingston, Washington, where she purchased her first home ever and where she delighted in watching her grandchildren grow and enjoyed her hobbies. She found joy in crafting, a testament to her creative spirit, and her love for the casino was only surpassed by her love for a good joke. She lived for the laughter and the light moments, always finding a way to turn an ordinary day into a memorable one. As Maya Angelou once said, "My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style." Rita embodied this ethos every day of her life.

Rita is survived by her son, Charles (Deborah) and daughter, Dawn (Brent) Dillow. She was a proud and loving grandmother to James, Harlee, Samantha Dillow, and Jessica and Chase Johnson. She is also survived by her sister, Merileigh Ann Gibson, and her brothers, John Johnson and Sidney Starling. Rita was widowed by her husband, Bill, and was preceded in death by her parents, Ernest Johnson and Minnie Starling, and her brothers, George and Fred Johnson.

Rita's life was a beautiful tapestry woven with threads of love, laughter, and generosity. She left a profound impact on everyone she met, touching lives with her humor and open heart. In the words of Dr. Seuss, "Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened." Rita would want us to remember her with smiles and laughter, celebrating the joy she brought into our lives. We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Rita on her memorial page, to help us remember the life of this astounding woman who meant so much to us all.