Rhea Blankenship Johnson Obituary

Keysville, Va.

Mrs. M. Rhea Blankenship Johnson, “Mama Rhea,” went home to be with her Lord on Wednesday, December 28, 2016.  She was born on August 31, 1923, in Wythe County, Va.  “Mama Rhea” is predeceased by her husband, Rev. Argle Johnson, and daughter, Deborah Johnson Vassar.  She is survived by daughters, Wanda J. Bowen (Bobby) of Farmville and Sandy J. Shupe (Dennis) of Mechanicsville.  “Mama Rhea” was blessed by seven grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and six great-great-grandchildren.  She also leaves behind two sisters, Gladys Blankenship Brewer of Johnson City, Tn., and Barbara Blankenship Hall of Bumpass, Va.  “Mama Rhea” devoted her life to helping her husband with spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  She was known for her quick wit and could cook enough for an army at a moment’s notice.  She loved music and would gladly participate in musical events at many churches.  She also enjoyed digging into the earth and planting flowers.  “Mama Rhea” loved babies.  Her blue eyes would sparkle at the thought of making people laugh—this was a special family trait.

A funeral service was held at 11 a.m., Saturday, December 31, 2016, in Emmanuel Bible Church with interment to following in the church cemetery in Keysville.  The family received friends at the Emmanuel Bible Church on Friday, December 30, 2016, from 6 to 8 p.m. In lieu of flowers contributions can be made to Emmanuel Bible Church Building Fund.  The Browning-Duffer Funeral Home in Keysville, Va. is serving the family.