Barbara "Nita" A. Johnson-Phillips

Barbara "Nita" Alethea Johnson-Phillips of Kingsville, Texas, a remarkable woman who embodied strength and resilience, went to be with the Lord on January 26, 2024. She was born on June 26, 1954, in Apalachicola, Florida to Robert Lee and Annie Mae Scott. From the very beginning, Nita showed an unwavering determination to make a difference in the world.

Nita's educational journey started in Duval County public schools in Jacksonville, Florida. She excelled academically and graduated from Stanton High School in 1972. During her time at Stanton, she not only shone in her studies but was also a Majorette and actively involved in ROTC. These early experiences set the stage for the incredible path Nita would embark upon. In pursuit of her dreams and fueled by a sense of duty, Nita immediately enlisted in the United States Air Force after high school. Her commitment to serving her country was unwavering. In 1974, she married Nathaniel Slack, who passed away leaving Nita a young widow. She paused her service in the Air Force but remained active with the National Guard. During this time, Nita utilized her invaluable skills as a medic and took up a position at Riverside Hospital in Jacksonville, Florida. Her dedication to caring for others was evident as she worked tirelessly to provide compassionate care to those in need. At this juncture, she married Bennie Johnson Jr., and finally returned to active-duty Air Force. Continuing her military career allowed Barbara to follow her passion for both serving her country and raising a family alongside her husband. Throughout their journey together, Barbara and Bennie lovingly nurtured six children who brought joy and fulfillment into their lives. The delicate balance between motherhood and military service showcased Barbara's unwavering determination and boundless love. Over the course of 26 years, Barbara served at various Air Force bases, including Tyndall AFB, Keesler AFB, and six transformative years in The Philippines. Her dedication and contributions were invaluable to the well-being of those she served alongside. Among her numerous achievements, she spent time serving at Lackland AFB, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of both her colleagues and the individuals she encountered.

Barbara's incredible journey didn't end with her military service. She transitioned into a new phase of life post-retirement, relocating to Kingsville, Texas, where she found love in Reginald Phillips Sr., who became her beloved husband. In this new chapter, Barbara focused on nurturing and cherishing her six children as they grew into adulthood while embracing her passion for crafts and creativity. Barbara's creative spirit led her to become a successful business owner specializing in handmade greeting cards and other delightful creations. With each unique design, Barbara poured her heart into every detail, spreading joy and making countless lives brighter. Eventually, she decided to retire from entrepreneurship and turned her attention to the greatest love in her life - her grandchildren. In the presence of her adoring grandchildren, Barbara found immense happiness and contentment. She dedicated herself to showering them with love, wisdom, and a profound sense of family values that will forever nestle within their hearts.

Nita was preceded in death by her grandparents Avie Ree and Robert Wilson and Frances B. Scott; her dear father Robert Lee Scott; one aunt Addie Mae Stephens and one uncle Henry Robert Wilson.

Among those left to cherish her memory are her beloved spouse Reginald Phillips, Sr., six children Bennie (Jackie) Mack Johnson III, Michael Charles Johnson, Christopher Marc Johnson, Robin Johnson, Alethea (Scott) Johnson-Olivarez and Robert (Kemisha) Johnson, three blended family children Tonya (Harold) Johnson-Williams, Reginald A. Phillips and Ra’ Chel Phillips; fourteen grandchildren, her pride and joy Anea Johnson, Janeice Faison, Alexandra Johnson, Larissa Heniger, Adda Mari Johnson, Ariana Johnson, Leah Heniger, Landon Heniger, James Johnson, Christopher (CJ) Olivarez, Michelle Phillips, Bryson Johnson, Bria Johnson and Brielle Johnson; her mother Dr. Annie Mae Scott, 3 sisters Josie Yvette Griffin of Jacksonville, FL, Robin (David Cowens) Scott of Pittsford, NY, and Gina Michelle Scott of Portsmouth, VA; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous extended family members.

Services to honor Barbara will be held at Turcotte-Piper Mortuary on February 2, 2024, with a visitation to commence at 5:00 PM, followed by a Celebration of Life from 6:30 PM to 9:00 PM.

Barbara "Nita" Alethea Johnson-Phillips leaves behind a remarkable legacy of strength, perseverance, and unwavering devotion. Her impact extended far beyond the bounds of her immediate circle; it reached institutions within the Air Force as well as communities where she lived. As we celebrate Barbara's life through memory, let us remember the light she brought into this world. May we draw inspiration from her unfaltering determination to make a difference and cherish the memories we shared with this remarkable woman. May she rest in eternal peace knowing that her love and legacy continue to flourish through all those she touched during her extraordinary journey.