Martha "Marty" Jane Johnson

Martha (Marty) Jane Downing Johnson passed away peacefully on February 10, 2018 in Oklahoma City, OK. Marty was born on October 11, 1925, in Charleston, WV to Rodney Fitch Downing and Jane Oldham Lewelling Downing. Though she moved frequently as a child, she always considered Middleport, OH home. Marty was graduated high school from the Columbus School for Girls in Columbus, OH and went to Denison University in Granville, OH where she met the love of her life, Rensselaer Robinson Johnson, Jr. They were married on January 3, 1948 in Middleport and remained devoted for over 68 years until Rense's death in 2015. Marty and Rense moved south and ultimately settled in Lafayette, LA in 1956. There they raised their three daughters and lived for almost 50 years. In 2000, they moved to Oklahoma City to be closer to family. Volunteerism was important to Marty. She served as PTA President, Civil Defense Chairman, and Brownie Scout leader. She was an active alumna of Delta Delta Delta Sorority and was delighted to initiate all three of her daughters and a granddaughter into Tri Delta too. She was also active in many civic and social clubs including PEO, DAR, and countless others. Marty had a servant's heart and was always giving of her time and energies to help others. Family meant everything to Marty and Rense, especially since they were both only children. She was a wonderful cook and entertained often with Rense at their lake home on Lake Sam Rayburn in East Texas. Survivors are daughters, Marty Margo (Robert), Helen Crow (H.E.), Ruth McIver (Bobby); grandchildren, Amy Margo Hall (Michael), Bradley Margo, MD (Debbie), Matthew McIver (Carrie), Elizabeth McIver Cooper (Mark), and Rob McIver (Amy); and seven great-grandchildren. Marty was lovingly referred to as "The Sainted One" since she was so sweet and the epitome of class and grace. Not only will her family miss her, but so will all who knew her. We are comforted by the knowledge she is now reunited with Rense in heaven with their Lord. A memorial celebrating Marty's life will be held in the chapel of Crossings Community Church on Saturday, February 17, 2018 at 10:00 AM at 14600 Portland Ave., Oklahoma City. In lieu of flowers, a memorial gift may be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Middleport, 165 N 4th Ave; Middleport, OH 45760.