Rena Mae Johnson, age 79, of Bel Air, Maryland, passed away peacefully at home on Thursday, April 9, 2026, surrounded by her children, grandchildren, and other loved ones.

Born in St. Paul's, North Carolina, Rena was the beloved daughter of Neal Harold Griffin and Marjorie Eleanor (Becker) Griffin. She was the devoted wife of the late John Curtis Johnson, and together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and shared adventures.

Rena is lovingly remembered by her children and their spouses, Terry (Lynda) Johnson, Chandra (David) Ford, and Christa (Erin) O’Hara. She took immense pride in her grandchildren— Madison, Parker (Rhiannon), and Riley Johnson, Morgan (Brayden) Santos, Logan and Evan Ford; Marshall and Haley O’Hara; —and cherished every moment with her great-grandchildren, Walker and Waverly Santos. She is also survived by her sister, Frances Apgar, and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.

She was preceded in death by her siblings Harold Griffin, Ramona Smith, Gracie Russ, Retha Reiser, and Glenn Griffin.

Being a mother and grandmother (Mom Mom) was Rena’s greatest joy. She was deeply involved in her family’s lives, always present for milestones, celebrations, and everyday moments. She loved to travel with her husband, family and friends, and loved her time spent by the ocean. Her outgoing personality and warm heart made her a friend to many.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Baltimore City Fire Officers Widow & Orphans Fund, c/o Baltimore City Fire Officers VIVA Fund 1030 S. Lynbrook Ave. Baltimore, MD 21224 in loving memory of Rena M. Johnson, wife of Lt. John C. Johnson

Memorial Service to be held at: Bel Air Memorial Gardens, Friday 04/17/2026 2:00pm, 809 Rock Spring Rd. Bel Air, MD 21014