Gerald Johnson

10/9/1932 – 12/15/2012
Gerald L. Johnson, age 80, of Stanton passed away on Saturday, December 15, 2012 at his home. He was born on October 9, 1932 in Greenville, the son of Fred & Dorothy (Worthy) Johnson. Gerald was known by several nicknames which included, Jerry, Ezra and Ezzy.
On March 14, 1959, he was married to the former JoAnna Ribble and she survives in addition to a daughter, Jill Blair & Todd Helmer of Cedar Springs, a son, Jerry & Anita Johnson of Olivet, a step daughter, Cynthia Parr of Greenville, a step son, Orville Powell of Florida, 15 grandchildren, including a special granddaughter, Cyndee Thorlund, 13 great grandchildren and a brother, Fred & Betty Johnson of Greenville.
He was preceded in death by his parents, a son, Kenneth Johnson, 2 grandsons, Linsey & Cory Parr, a sister, Barbara Snyder and a brother, Jim Johnson.
Gerald has been lifelong resident of the Greenville and Stanton areas. He was a veteran of the US Army Michigan National Guard, was retired from the State of Michigan, formerly owned and operated Johnson’s Adult Foster Care for 30 years and as a retirement hobby, he worked at Leppinks in Stanton for 9 years. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Stanton and also the Stanton American Legion Post 452 where he was a past post commander. For 10 years he served on the Stanton Old Fashioned Days committee holding several positions.
Funeral services beginning at 11:00 A.M. will be held on Wednesday, December 19, 2012 at the First Baptist Church in Stanton with Pastor Ryan White officiating. Interment will be at the North Sidney Cemetery.
Visitation will be on Tuesday, December 18th from 6:00 until 8:00 P.M. at the Simpson Family Funeral Home in Sheridan and also prior to the funeral service at the church on Wednesday.
For those desiring to do so, the family has suggested memorial considerations can be made to the First Baptist Church and there will be envelopes available at the funeral home.
On 12/16/2012 Kathy Grose said:
A truly wonderful man who did so much for his family, community, and country. He will be surely missed.
On 12/16/2012 Jenny Diehl said:
Uncle Gerald will be truly missed. Especially how he had to give every “good looking girl” a hug when ever he saw them! The family picnic will never be the same. RIP Uncle Gerald
On 12/17/2012 Janis & Philip Rohn said:
Jerry was a sweet, wonderful man who will be dearly missed by all of us at First Baptist Church. I won’t forget how he loved to make cookies for visitors who came to our church. He was also always so positive and caring. God bless you, Jerry.
On 12/17/2012 Jeanette Emmons said:
Will be praying for you all in the passing of your loved one. Such a faithful Believer – and fine gentleman. His presence will be missed in the church and community. May God ‘grace you’ for each step of this new journey.
On 12/17/2012 Tricia Rabbe (Claflin) said:
I will never forget my Michigan Bear, I don’t remember a point in my past when he wasn’t there. My heart hurts. I miss him and love him forever
On 12/18/2012 Stephanie Ribble said:
Some of the best memories of my childhood were spend with Uncle Gerald (Uncle G) and Aunt JoAnna. He will be sadly missed. All my love to everyone having to deal with such a loss. Stephanie Ribble
On 12/18/2012 Norma miller said:
So sorry geraLd was such a good guy will be praying for the Family .
On 12/18/2012 Julie Alexander Mikek said:
Jill and family So sorry for your loss. But he is celebrating Christmas in a great place!! Sending you all hugs and prayers of strength to get through the coming days and holidays.. xoxoxo
On 12/18/2012 Shelly King Jedynak said:
Jerry will be greatly missed by many. He was a dear friend of mine. He was always their with a listening ear and good advice. And he always had a smile and a big hug for me. I love Jerry very much!
On 12/19/2012 Shannon Miller-Cooley said:
JoAnna, you are in my thoughts and prayers. Gerald was an amazing man. I have so many memories growing up being at your house on Cliffor Lake and seeing him at the armory. He will truly be missed!!