Ella Marie Johnson, affectionately known as "Ginger," passed away peacefully on June 3, 2025, at the age of 74. Born on April 17, 1951, in Loveland, Ohio, she was the third child of the late James and Rosemary Mitchell.
Ginger never met a stranger with her warm presence and radiant smile; she could light up any room and leave a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her leadership and compassion were evident from a young age, as she served actively on the student council at Loveland High School where she graduated in 1969. She later attended the University of Cincinnati.
She confessed her faith in Jesus Christ at an early age at Loveland Predestinarian Baptist Church under the pastoral care of Rev. Love Walker. Her love for the Lord was evident in all she did. Later in life, she united with First Baptist Church of Kennedy Heights, where she was a devoted and active member, faithfully attending until her health declined. Ginger co-founded with Sis. Todd the "Every Other Saturday" Bible Study Group that is still active today. She truly lived out the principle that God is Love extending kindness, encouragement, and service to everyone around her.
Ginger was married twice, first to Keith Williams and later to George T. Johnson. She and George shared many loving years together until his passing in 2018. From their union came her greatest joy-her daughter, Jamie L. Johnson.
Professionally, Ginger dedicated over 20 years of service to Bethesda Oak Hospital before retiring. Retirement, however, didn't keep her still for long. Her natural inclination to serve led her to volunteer at The Urban League of Greater Cincinnati. It was there that her passion, energy, and commitment to the community were recognized, and she was soon offered a staff position.
Ginger was the epitome of hospitality and joy. She was an avid card player who loved hosting card parties and making people feel at home. She also dedicated herself to her community through tireless volunteerism and local activism. She didn't just participate-she led. Many of the programs she helped to start still serve the community today, a testament to her lasting impact and leadership.
She is preceded in death by her parents, James and Rosemary Mitchell; her beloved sister Jamie Mitchell; and her husband George T. Johnson.
She leaves to cherish her memory her devoted daughter Jamie Johnson; two loving sisters, Paula Oguah and Mary Churchill; nieces, Sandee Barnes and Biri Oguah; nephew, William "Fred" Murray; and a host of extended family including the family she gained through marriage whom she warmly larria embraced and loved as her own. Lastly, but not least, she also leaves behind dearly loved lifelong friends (truly family) who were loved not only by Ginger but also her entire family.
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