Jerry Wayne Johnson 77, of Morgantown, passed away on Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2022. He was born on Sept. 16, 1944, son of the late Fred O. Johnson and Margaret Hayman Furgeson. Jerry was a Morgantown native, beloved brother, husband and father and was known by many other names to others.
Jerry had an illustrious football career, such as he was All State, All American and earned a four year scholarship, starting at Morgantown High and entering the Hall of Fame there in 2017. He continued to play at WVU and obtained his master’s degree.
He devoted more than 40 years in mine safety and health training. He was known up and down the Eastern half of the USA for his wonderful mine rescue contests. He worked at Bethlehem Mines, The Federal Bureau of Mine Safety and Health Administration in special investigations and with the State Bureau of Mines until his retirement in 2019.
Jerry is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 55 years, Susan Morrison Johnson; two daughters, Cherie Johnson-Barry (Patrick) and Jerri Rene Morfa (Jorge-Felix); grandchildren: Devon Johnson, McKenzie McGill (Alyssa) and Anissa-Rosa; great-grandchildren, Ali Surbrook and Carter Johnson; brother, Clyde Johnson (Charlotte); as well as brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, cousins and numerous friends that he considered family.
In addition to Jerry’s parents, he was proceeded in death by his nephew, Douglas O. Johnson and grandson, Rufus “Sonny” Arthur McGill II.
A celebration of life will be held at Hastings Funeral Home, 153 Spruce St., Morgantown, from 2 p.m. until the funeral service at 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 13, with the Rev. Jim Webb officiating.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the Morgantown Highschool Athletic Hall of Fame.
Condolences:
www.hastingsfuneralhome.com
