Jerry L. Johnson

Jerry L. Johnson, age 77, of Brook, Indiana passed away unexpectedly on Friday, February 21, 2025 at Franciscan Health Rensselaer, Rensselaer, IN. Born in San Antonio, TX, to the late Jerry and Mary (Harford) Johnson, he grew up in Illinois graduating from Crete Monee HS and Northern Illinois University. Out of college he began his career in transportation with Schilli Motor Lines serving in various rolls within the company, retiring after 40 plus years.

A devoted family man, Jerry is lovingly remembered by his wife and best friend of 47 years, Susan (Forsythe). His bonus Burns children, Patrick (Linda), Michael (Jerri), Molly Burns Thompson, Joseph (Lynn) and Mary (Frank) Steck. Cherished by his beloved Grands: Zachary, Zane (Alyssa), Jacob, Tim, Braden, Rita (David) and Rebecca (Greg) plus bonus grand, Seth. Forever Big Poppa to Great Grands: Lucie, Marcy, Arthur, Winston and Teddy. He is also survived by his brother Charles of Ziegler, IL and niece Melissa of West Frankfort, IL. along with many cousins and bonus family members.

Jerry had the heart of a servant and volunteered tirelessly in many capacities for his loved adopted hometown. He was an active member of organizations past and present including the Brook Lions Club, Brook Community Club, Brook Conservation Club and Community Fund. He also served years on the Newton Co. Sheriff Merit Board and Brook-Iroquois Library Board, but his greatest call to serve was as an active member of the Brook United Methodist Church. In retirement, Jerry was an almost daily presence from morning coffee, Thursday meals, Backpack Friday and every special event and any board, wherever needed and ready to serve. To his BUMC community he will be most remembered as Greeter in Chief, for his big welcoming hugs and his keen interest in all from young to old.

Above all, Jerry was a funny, kind and gentle soul, a loyal friend, always ready with a compliment and a helping hand. He was a giant of a man who cast a long shadow of caring and his giant stature will be dearly missed by many in many ways.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 28, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM (CST) at Brook United Methodist Church. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 10:30 AM at Brook United Methodist Church with Pastor Matt Baughman officiating. Per Jerry’s wishes cremation rites will follow.

Memorial donations may be in Jerry’s name to the Brook United Methodist Church, 124 E. Main St., Brook, IN 47922.

Arrangements entrusted to Gerts, Windler & Keller Funeral Homes ~ Brook Chapel, 129 E. Main St., Brook, IN 47922. (219) 275-6161.