Terrence Johnson

Terrence Lee Johnson, born on February 27, 1939 in Battle Creek, Michigan, embarked on his heavenly journey on March 4, 2025. Terrence, a dedicated and inspiring figure, resided in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The story of Terrence's life is not merely a list of dates and places, but a tribute to a man who lived his life to the fullest and carved a lasting impact on everyone he met. A man of many passions, Terrence loved nothing more than washing his cars on a sunny Saturday, finding the best deals at garage sales, and making his annual trips to Coldwater for his “Worst Family Reunion”. He was known for his love of the outdoors, often found fishing, camping, or hitting the town in his fancy sports cars. Terrence was a loving and generous man, a trait that was evident in his dedication to his family. He spent over 43 blissful years married to his beloved wife and was a father figure to many. Terrence's family was his world; he always put his family’s needs above his own. He was a shoulder to lean on, a friend to rely on, and a rock for his entire family. His career was marked by formidable dedication. Terrence worked at Kalvinators for over 25 years, and after they closed their doors, he began working at Jackson Products, continuing there through retirement. His devotion to his work was parallel to his love for his family, and he was always there to lend a helping hand. Terrence was the beloved patriarch of a large and loving family. He is survived by his daughters, Christie (David) Essex and Tammie (Chris) Melinn; son, Terrence (Terry) Jr.; grandchildren, Alisha (Glenn) Stevens, Samantha, Rachel, Justin, Maria, Krystal and Destini Johnson; brother, Jack Johnson; and sister, Betsy (Will) Mears. He was also blessed with 21 great-grandchildren and many friends who became family. He was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond Johnson and Dorothy Worst; his wife, Rose Johnson; brothers, Larry and Jerry Johnson; and sister, Sheran Johnson. As the poet Maya Angelou once said, "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." Terrence made everyone feel special and loved. Terrence was an inspiring man who battled Alzheimer's for 14 years, showing us all the true meaning of resilience. His memory will live on in the hearts of those he touched with his kindness and love. Please join us for a celebration of life for Terrence on April 5th, 2025, at 3:00 pm at St. George Peter and Paul's Aid, 1513 Quarry Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49504. We invite you to share your memories of Terrence and upload photos to the memorial page, as a testament to the joy and love he brought into our lives. Cremation arrangements were entrusted to Michigan Cremation & Funeral Care, Grand Rapids, 616-452-3006, exclusive providers of Veterans Funeral Care. To order memorial trees or send flowers to the family in memory of Terrence Johnson, please visit our flower store.