Rita Johnston

Rita Johnston was born on December 3, 1962, in Birżebbuġa, Malta, to Bartholomew and Josephine Attard. She spent her early childhood in Malta before moving to Canada with her family and later settling in the United States at the age of 18, where she would build a life defined by love, service, and generosity.

On January 10, 1992, she married Harry Johnston. Over the next 34 years, they shared a devoted and loving marriage filled with laughter, adventure, and constant companionship. Rita and Harry were truly inseparable, embracing life side by side and creating countless cherished memories together.

For 25 years, Rita served as a paraprofessional at Ottawa Hills Elementary School. She poured her heart into her work and left a lasting impact on every child she encountered. Rita formed meaningful bonds with her students, treating them as if they were her own. She was known for always having snacks ready for any child in need and for ensuring that each one felt safe, supported, and cared for.

Rita had a deep love for travel and was always eager to explore somewhere new, whether it meant boarding a plane or setting out on a road trip. She especially treasured her visits to London to see her son and her trips back to Malta to reconnect with family. No matter the destination, she and Harry made it a tradition to seek out a TJ Maxx along the way, a simple joy that became one of their many shared traditions.

A true giver at heart, Rita would do anything for anyone without hesitation. She gave freely and wholeheartedly, never expecting anything in return. Her kindness extended even to her four-legged neighbor, Mary Lou, a Terrier-Chihuahua mix whom she adored and lovingly spoiled along with her beloved cat Helen.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Bartholomew and Josephine Attard.

Rita is survived by her devoted husband, Harry Johnston; her beloved son, Daniel Kine; her sister, Carmen Olinger; and her cherished nieces and nephews. She will be deeply missed by her family, friends, former students, and all who were blessed to know her.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, April 14, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Walker Funeral Home, 5155 W. Sylvania Avenue, Toledo, Ohio. Rita will be cremated.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Boulevard Christian Church or the Maltese American Benevolent Society of Detroit in her memory.