Christine Susan Johnson

Christine “Cricket” Susan Johnson

March 8, 1953 – March 24, 2025

Christine Susan Johnson, lovingly known to most simply as Cricket, passed away peacefully on March 24, 2025, at the age of 72.

Born March 8, 1953, Cricket was a vibrant spirit with deep roots in Three Oaks, Michigan. After spending many years building a life with her beloved husband, Randy “RJ” Johnson, she returned to her hometown in the early 2000s, quickly becoming a cherished and familiar face. She didn’t just move back—she plugged into the pulse of the town with her signature wit, warmth, and willingness to be involved (whether you asked her to be or not).

Cricket was preceded in death by her husband RJ; her father, Johnny Mac Lemons; her mother, Marjorie Mae Lemons (née Simpson); and her sister, Melinda Mae Rowles. She is survived by her devoted son, Bo Axl Johnson, her brother, Bert Lemons, and her adoring nieces and nephews: Greg Rowles (40), Bobby Rowles (39), Desirae Lemons (35), John Lemons (34), Meria Rowles (34), and Lydia Kimble (33). She is also survived by many great-nieces and nephews, cousins, and extended family—all of whom she loved dearly and deeply.

In her younger years, Cricket worked at the bar Cheers, where many of her most memorable and animated stories were born. Whether it was tossing out rowdy patrons, laughing with regulars, or famously bouncing a Notre Dame football player, her time there remained a vivid and joyful part of her life's story—especially the moments shared with RJ.

Cricket served her community in ways both official and organic—from her time as the beloved crossing guard at Three Oaks Elementary to her regular appearances at garage sales, the senior center, and the local thrift store. She was known for her beautiful spirit, quick wit, and a smile that made strangers feel like old friends. If something was happening in town, Cricket probably knew about it. And if she didn’t, she soon would.

Those who knew her remember her as "one in a million." She was a regular burst of sunshine in everyday places—a laugh at the supermarket, a smile at the sidewalk, a friend you didn’t know you needed. Even those who only knew her in passing have shared stories of her warmth, her humor, and her kindness.

Cricket’s beloved dog, Sophie, passed just days after her, and the two will be remembered together forever. Her ashes will remain with her son Bo, always near her great love, RJ—just as she wanted.

Per Cricket’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral. She never believed in the fuss or the fanfare. What she did believe in was love, laughter, and community—and those are the gifts she leaves behind for all of us.

She will be missed more than words can say, but the echo of her presence will live on in the stories we share, the lives she touched, and the town she helped shape with every kind word and knowing glance.

Rest easy, Cricket. You were truly one of a kind."