Emily "Bootise" Ann Johnson

Emily “Bootise” Ann Johnson, 93, of Port Tobacco, Maryland, passed away peacefully at her home on May 29, 2026. Born on May 23, 1933, in Washington, D.C., Bootise was the daughter of Emily (Gateau) and Raymond Barnes. She lived a remarkable life filled with adventure, hard work, and a deep love for family and friends. Bootise dedicated many years of service as a Contracting Officer for the United States Government. She had a passion for aviation and proudly earned her pilot’s license, embracing the freedom and excitement of flying. Alongside her beloved husband, W.G. “Taft” Johnson, she owned and operated several family businesses, including go-kart tracks and amusement rides in Bryans Road, MD, Wildwood and Atlantic City, NJ. Together, they also operated The Jewel Shop in Indian Head, MD, where Taft taught her the intricate craft of watch repair. An adventurous spirit, Bootise and Taft shared a love of racing, competing in both go-kart and race car events. She also enjoyed playing cards, singing karaoke, and spending time with those she loved. Her infectious personality, sense of humor, and zest for life created lasting memories for everyone fortunate enough to know her. Bootise was preceded in death by her husband, W.G. “Taft” Johnson; her parents, Emily (Gateau) Eckert and Raymond Barnes; her brother, Tony Barnes; her sister, Doris Hardy; and her granddaughter’s husband, Steve Johnson. She leaves behind a loving family who will cherish her memory: her children, Kathryn (Cakes) Hill (Robert), Ricky Johnson (Sharon), and Laurie Johnson; her grandchildren, Bridget Johnson, Dawn Rye (Tim), and Candy Dodge (Matt); her great-grandchildren, Branden Murphy, T.J. Rye (Amber), Sydney Rye, Lilly Dodge, and John Dodge; her great-great-grandchildren, Timmy Rye and McKenna Rye; and her sisters, Jackie Callahan and Rae Wiseman. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Bootise’s life on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, at Raymond Funeral Service, 5635 Washington Avenue, La Plata, Maryland 20646. Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. until the funeral service begins at 3:00 p.m. Bootise’s legacy of love, resilience, adventure, and devotion to family will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

Emily "Bootise" Ann Johnson

May 23, 1933 - May 29, 2026