Kitza Marie Johnson of Corpus Christi, Texas, passed away at the age of 65 on February 16, 2025 on her property. She was born April 6, 1959, in Falfurrias, Texas.

Kitza was a musician and artist who struggled with schizophrenia. Mental illness coupled with chronic, debilitating physical disease and trauma caused her great distress and discomfort. Kitza had a wicked sense of humor along with a toe-curling laugh. She was deeply misunderstood by those unaware of her history as well as by those who knew her but chose to judge rather than show compassion. She was a fighter capable of great acts of kindness and love. Those of us who knew and loved her understood how much she wanted to be loved and understood in return. She wanted so badly to be at peace in her mind. Kitza enjoyed her coffee, cigarettes, and music. Janis Joplin, Willie Nelson, Edith Piaf, Freddy Fender, Jim Croce, and Santana were among her favorites. She played beautiful Spanish guitar having been taught by mariachis in Mexico. She played many nights at local coffee houses in her teens and early twenties with her baby sister in tow. She loved all animals, particularly cats. She could seem scary for those who did not understand mental illness like hers, but she never wanted to hurt anyone or cause them grief. Schizophrenia is a complicated, devasting illness, and it is difficult to watch and help a loved one who suffers in this way. As her sister, I encourage others to learn about mental illness and understand the importance of showing empathy and compassion to those tortured by it.

She was preceded in death by her mother, Myrdeth Ann Longbotham Garcia, and her father, Robert Cecil Johnson.

Kitza is survived by her sister, Christina Mauro, and her family, her brother, Bobby Johnson and his family, and her family by choice in Michigan, Sandra Kyte, Janine Collier, and Dave Kyte.

She will be laid to rest in Los Angeles, CA where her sister can visit her with her cup of coffee. For those who would like to remember Kitza or honor anyone who suffers as she did, please consider a donation in her name to one of the organizations below. NAMI at nami.org RAINN at rain.org The Trevor Project at thetrevorproject.com