Juanita Ann Johnson

Juanita Ann Johnson, 68, departed this life Tuesday, October 6, 2020 in her home. She was born November 11, 1951 to Dorothy and Berthrum L. Wells, Sr. From an early age, Juanita was feisty and inquisitive with a passion for learning. Juanita, or “Nita” as she was affectionately called by her family and friends, was an ardent supporter for women’s rights in the Cincinnati area, working for the YWCA and Women Helping Women and served as a board member. In later years. Juanita returned to school to earn a Masters in Public Administration. She began working with non-traditional students at the Union Institute & University, where she held a number of professional positions during her tenure. Juanita became an activist for educational equity, especially for African-American youth by partnering with many local and national organizations whose missions were to enhance the educational experience and increase opportunities for students of color in both K-12 and higher education. In time, Juanita became a loving grandma to her 10 grandchildren. She enjoyed playtime that included artwork, visiting museums, baking, and anything that would educationally enhance her grands. Quilting was her favorite pastime and acquiring boxes of eccentric fabric was a joy. Her passing was unexpected and devastating. Juanita was kind, loving, encouraging, silly, strong-willed, thoughtful, and a light to everyone that loved her. She will forever be remembered and missed by her family and friends. Juanita leaves to cherish her memory: her son, Kristian Lamar McKinney; daughters, Crystal Renée Wagner (Jesse) and Veronica Robinson (Michael); sister, Renée P. Wormack-Keels; brother, Berthrum L. Wells, Jr.; 10 grandchildren, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and a wide circle of friends. She was preceded in death by her mother, Dorothy, and her father, Berthrum. Visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, October 14, 2020 at Rockdale Baptist Church, 539 Forest Ave, Cincinnati, Ohio 45229. Interment: Oak Hill Cemetery Arrangements entrusted to the care of KINLEY Funeral Home.