Obituary of Rita Kay Johnson

 

Mrs. Rita Kay Johnson, 76 a resident of Winter Haven passed away Saturday, March 21, 2020 at Lakeland Regional surrounded by her family. Mrs. Johnson was born Sept. 24, 1943 in Detroit, Michigan to Orvin and Ruby (Walker) Kalso. She was a Winter Haven resident since 1982 coming from St. Petersburg & North Port. Rita retired after 31 years as a Head Cashier with Winn Dixie Grocery Stores. Rita was known for her contagious laugh & smile. She enjoyed growing orchids, going to the beach, arts/crafts, puzzles and spending time with her family. She was preceded in death by her parents. Rita is survived by her loving husband of 32 years – John Johnson of Winter Haven; son – Paul Newcomb of Cedar Rapids, IA; 2 daughters – Gwen Purcell and her husband Dan of East Berne, NY and Mona Hughes of Winter Haven; brother – George Kalso and his wife JoLynn of Hawthorne, MI.; sister – Sue Clampett and her husband Bert of Enid, OK.; 8 grandchildren- Anthony, Adam, Aaron, Anna, Grace, Emily, Justin & Jenna; and 5 great grandchildren.  In lieu of flowers donations in Rita’s name can be made to either; SPCA or Polk County Humane Society. A private memorial service will be held and a public memorial service will be announced at a later date.  

 

March 23, 2020

Starting immediately and until further notice.

ALL services will consist of 10 people ONLY with no exceptions. 

1 Funeral Director, 1 Clergy and 8 family members.  This includes services at Kersey Funeral Home, a place of worship and cemetery.

This is of the utmost importance to stop the spread of the Coronavirus.  There are now 10+ cases in Polk County.

We are saddened by this extreme measure, but it is imperative that we all work together during these unprecedented times.

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