SOUTHINGTON - Mary Lea Johnson, 82, of Southington, and Venice, Fla., passed away Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2013, at the Summit of Plantsville. She was the wife of the late Joseph F. Johnson Sr.She was born in Philadelphia, Pa., the daughter of the late Norman and Mary (Smyth) Webb. Mary Lea was an elementary and special-ed teacher for the Meriden and Southington school systems. She was a longtime advocate for the disabled, spending countless hours fighting for their rights. She was an active member of both the Southington and Venice Grace United Churches.She is survived by a daughter, Pamela Lebel and her husband, Norman, of Southington; a son, Jeffrey E. Johnson, of Durham; two granddaughters, Jessica and Jennifer Lebel. She was predeceased by a son, Joseph F. Johnson Jr.; and a brother , Norman Webb.A memorial service will be held on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 7 p.m. at the Grace United Methodist Church, 121 Pleasant St. Southington. There are no calling hours. DellaVecchia Funeral Home, 211 N. Main St. is assisting with arrangements. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in her memory to the Grace United Methodist Church, 121 Pleasant St. Southington or the Grace United Methodist Church, Organ Fund, 400 Eastfield Ave. Venice, FL 34285. For online condolences and directions visit www.dellavecchiafh.com