Jerry Lee Johnson

Jerry Lee Johnson, age 78, passed away peacefully at his home on March 13, 2024, in Hamilton, IA. Jerry was born on December 31, 1945, in Knoxville, IA. He graduated from Albia High School. On July 29, 1967, he married the love of his life, Ella Marie Clipperton. They enjoyed 39 years of marriage before Ella left this world. In union of their marriage, two children were born, Stacy and Lynn. Jerry had many jobs before he started his career at John Deere of Ottumwa, where he spent 32 years, 8 months, and 5 days, but he said, “I’m not counting.” Jerry enjoyed his retirement where he loved to mingle around. He loved his mid-morning drives around the local areas. He thought it was his job to snoop and see what was going on. He loved to mow and maintain his 40 acres. He was always so proud when “his farmer” showed up to farm his land. He would call and say, “I’m farming today,” which meant he was sitting on the porch or watching out his window. Jerry was also the best fix it man. There was nothing he couldn’t fix. He threw nothing away and had a purpose for everything that he kept. Jerry had an absolute love for all the animals on “his land.” He fed them all- cracked corn for the turkey, deer and squirrels; dead carcasses for the hawks, eagles, coyotes, and fox; bird seed and hummingbird food for all the birds; kitty food for the stray cats; and his most favorite was feeding the coons. He loved his nightly visits from a coon or two and made sure he always gave them marshmallows. Jerry also loved his family. He would light up with a big proud smile when talking about his 3 great grandkids. He loved them so much and they brought him so much joy. Jerry is survived by his son, Stacy (Jenny) Johnson of Albia, IA and daughter, Lynn (Patrick) Silvers of Hamilton, IA; his granddaughters, Lincoln (Zach) Fligg and their children, Emery and Ensley and Macy Silvers and her son, Maverick; and his grandson, Cody (Brittney) Silvers and their family. Jerry was preceded in death by his wife, Ella Marie; his parents, Ernest and Isabell Johnson; brothers, Lowell, William, Dallas, and John Johson; a sister, Doris; and many brothers and sisters-in-law. A Celebration of Life visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. on Saturday, March 30, 2024, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Jerry’s family present to greet family and friends. Inurnment will follow at the Hamilton Cemetery in Hamilton, IA. An open memorial has been established to the family.

Jerry Lee Johnson

December 31, 1945 - March 13, 2024