Gone to glory: A tribute to a community icon

‘Mrs. Johnson was extremely intelligent, well read and conversant on a wide range of topics,’ said Goliath J. Davis, III.

GOLIATH J. DAVIS, III, Ph.D., Contributor

ST. PETERSBURG — I count myself blessed and fortunate to have known Mrs. Ethel Johnson, matriarch and cofounder of The Weekly Challenger, a community newspaper that has informed residents of south St. Pete and beyond for more than 50 years. I had known of Mrs. Johnson since the Challenger’s inception but came to know her on a personal level when she considered selling the paper in 2001.

As deputy mayor for Midtown Economic Development, my staff and I worked with Mrs. Johnson to retain and preserve The Weekly Challenger, a much-valued and needed community asset. It was during this time that our personal relationship was formed, and I was privileged to get an up close opportunity to know the true lady, Ethel Johnson.

Ethel Johnson
1931-2023

Mrs. Johnson was extremely intelligent, well read and conversant on a wide range of topics.   Her talents were hidden from most for years due to the era in which she was born and lived. Women of her caliber often labored in the background while their husbands and significant others were pushed to the forefront.

When her daughter, Lyn Johnson, assumed the reins and took over the day-to-day management of the paper, Mrs. Johnson retreated to the background but maintained a daily presence with the paper. She read the stories, critiqued the layout and would never hesitate to offer advice to me as a contributor. She was keenly aware of educational and political issues, and it was through our conversations that I got the inspiration for some of the columns I wrote.

Working with Senator Darryl Rouson and Dr. Helen Levine at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, funds were obtained to digitize The Weekly Challenger, past and present editions, making it accessible worldwide. Additionally, through a collaboration with the Poynter Institute, Lyn Johnson, The Challenger’s editor, thoroughly evaluated the paper to include layout, business practices, finances, and circulation. A seminar focusing on community newspapers was organized and presented to newspaper owners and editors from across the country.

Mother Johnson, as I fondly and affectionately called her, was devoutly religious and well-versed in scripture. I benefited significantly from the religious readings, scriptures and parables she shared with me telephonically, via the mail or during our visits.

She always sensed when I needed a lift and never failed to provide one. Whenever she had to be hospitalized, I would drive down and sit with her for hours. We never had a dull conversation.

Those of the Christian faith believe in life after death and fully understand what is required to attain that status. My knowledge of Mother Johnson leaves no doubt in my mind that she has met the requirements and, on May 26, 2023, “went home to glory.” Yet, her legacy remains here on earth. 

Through her support, guiding hand and everlasting love of her family and community jewel, The Weekly Challenger, we will continue to be well informed as the editor, Lyn Johnson, keeps the dream of Mr. Cleveland Johnson and Mrs. Ethel Johnson alive.

Thank you, Mother Johnson, for all you’ve done and continue to do through your family.