Jerry Lee Johnson, formerly of Eldorado

Jerry Lee Johnson, 90, of Paris, Illinois and formerly of Eldorado and Casey, Illinois, passed away at 6:55 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 26, 2022, at his residence.

He retired in 1994 as a job coach with Eastern Illinois Area Special Education after more than 35 years as an educator. He previously taught at school districts in Kansas, Ridge Farm, Illinois and Chrisman, Illinois.

Born Jan. 3, 1932, in Rector, Arkansas, he was the son of the late Elva Boyd and Ida Marie (Downen) Johnson. He married Ann Raley on Aug. 20, 1955, in Carbondale, Illinois.

In addition to his wife of 66 years, Jerry is survived by two sisters, Betty Jo (Jim) Allmon of Marshfield, Missouri, and Sybble Smith of Springfield, Missouri; a nephew, Eric (Wendy) Johnson of Marion, Illinois; a niece, Nancy Downing (Terrie Velasco) of Collinsville, Illinois; and his faithful dog, Chewy.

He was preceded in death by a son, Mark Lee Johnson; and a brother, Arnold Johnson.

Mr. Johnson was a U.S. Air Force veteran of the Korean War. He earned his Bachelor's Degree in Industrial Arts Education from Southern Illinois University and his Master's Degree in Special Education from Indiana State University.

He enjoyed being a licensed private pilot for many years. Jerry will be remembered as a friendly, laid-back person who was good at encouraging others. He loved road trips, dinner conversations, good jokes, and flying his airplane, especially when in the company of his family.

For those who wish, the family suggests that memorials be made to the Edgar County Dog Shelter.

At his request, no public services are planned. Interment will be private at a later date. Templeton Funeral Home in Paris is in charge of arrangements.

Please consider sharing a memory, photo, or condolence with Jerry's family on his Tribute Wall at www.TempletonFuneralHome.com.