Jerry J. Johnson was born in Chicago, Illinois, on December 25, 1946   He was the first- born child of Joseph and Alice Johnson.  He was baptized that same year at St. Joseph's Catholic Church.  He later attended St. Joseph's elementary school and graduated from St. Michaels High School

Jerry joined the U.S Navy in 1964 during the Vietnam War.  He trained and served in both   active and reserve duty roles over a 20- year period, and rose to the rank of Commander.  This started with his becoming a Navy Seal (Seal Team 6) at the age of 19, followed by inhalation therapist and pilot.  Having a passion for all things aviation, he would later work in the civilian aviation services field, until his retirement in 2016.  He was a member of the AOPA (Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association), and a flying club at the Buchanan Field Airport in Concord, CA. After retirement from aviation services, Jerry became a member of the National Active and Retired Federal Employees Association along with his wife Sharon. He served as historian for the Delta Chapter #1718.

On April 1, 1979 Jerry married Sharon Wilson of Chicago, Illinois. They later moved to California, but settled in Antioch, California.  Through this union, they became the proud parents of Alicia Michelle, Andrew Anthony and Colette Wilson Johnson.

Jerry departed this life from lung cancer on May 25, 2026.  He was preceded in death by his parents and one brother – Billie Johnson.

Leaving to cherish his memory are: wife, Sharon; three children:  Alicia, Andrew and Colette; brothers Joseph Johnson (Niva), Michael Johnson and Philip Johnson (Idalis) ; sister, Valerie; father-in-law, Merle Wilson; sisters-in-law Cynthia McCall and Patricia Kennedy and brother-in-law Merle Joseph Wilson; and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Until We Meet Again

Heaven called upon you, leaving so many words left to say;

But lasting forever are memories of you.

The good times, the laughter, the love that we knew

You will forever be in my heart and mind.

Still making me laugh as your stories live on and missing our long daily talks.

Now it's time for me to say good bye,

Until we meet again in heaven to fly.

-   Sis, Valerie