Local Businessman and Outdoorsman Jerry Gene Johnson Dies at 90

Johnson was a retired refrigeration business owner and avid fisherman and hunter in the McLeansboro area.

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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Jerry Gene Johnson, a 90-year-old retired refrigeration business owner and lifelong resident of McLeansboro, Illinois, passed away on March 4, 2026 at Hamilton Memorial Hospital. Johnson was known for his love of the outdoors, spending much of his time fishing and hunting with his family.

Why it matters

Johnson's passing marks the end of an era for a local business leader and community member who was deeply connected to the McLeansboro area. His obituary highlights the importance of family, faith, and outdoor recreation in the lives of many long-time residents of this small Illinois town.

The details

Jerry Gene Johnson was born on December 1, 1935 in Benton, Illinois to Paul Eugene and Bernice (Hatcher) Johnson. He married Nancy Jean Rick on February 15, 1957, and the couple spent most of their lives in the McLeansboro area. Johnson owned and operated a refrigeration business before retiring. In his free time, he was an avid fisherman and hunter who enjoyed spending time outdoors with his family.

  • Jerry Gene Johnson passed away on March 4, 2026 at the age of 90.
  • Johnson was born on December 1, 1935 in Benton, Illinois.
  • Johnson married Nancy Jean Rick on February 15, 1957.

The players

Jerry Gene Johnson

A 90-year-old retired refrigeration business owner and lifelong resident of McLeansboro, Illinois who was known for his love of fishing, hunting, and the outdoors.

Nancy Jean Rick

Jerry Gene Johnson's wife of nearly 70 years.

Paul Eugene Johnson

Jerry Gene Johnson's father.

Bernice (Hatcher) Johnson

Jerry Gene Johnson's mother.

First United Methodist Church of McLeansboro

The church where memorial donations in Jerry Gene Johnson's name may be made.

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What they’re saying

“Jerry Gene Johnson will be deeply missed by his family and the entire McLeansboro community. He was a pillar of our town and his love of the outdoors inspired many.”

— Thad Galloway, Pastor (wmclradio.com)

What’s next

Visitation for Jerry Gene Johnson will be held on Saturday, March 7 from 5 to 8 p.m. at Gholson Funeral Home in McLeansboro. Funeral services will take place the following day, Sunday, March 8, at 2 p.m. at the same funeral home, with burial to follow at Braden Valley Cemetery.

The takeaway

Jerry Gene Johnson's life and legacy serve as a reminder of the importance of community, family, and a connection to the natural world - values that have long been central to life in small towns like McLeansboro. His passing marks the end of an era, but his impact will continue to be felt by those whose lives he touched.