Jerry Reece Johnson, 86, of Nashville, Ark., passed away on Nov. 5, 2026. He was born on Sept. 23, 1940 in Hermitage, Ark., to the late Hagard and Ethel Johnson.
Jerry graduated from Hermitage High School in 1958, and went on to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry from the University of Arkansas at Monticello.
In 1963 he began a 38-year career at what was originally named Dierks Forests, Inc., then Weyerhaeuser, but changed ownership several times.
He worked his way up from Quality Control Manager to Plant Manager, and under his management “The Briar Plant,” as it is commonly referred to by the locals, became the world’s largest gypsum producer.
Jerry will be remembered for his quiet demeanor, straightforward approach to life, and the ability, at 5’9” and 165 pounds, to scare even the largest football player away from his daughters. His passions were golf and running, but Jerry also enjoyed gardening, boating, and was a lover of all things nature.
Jerry is survived by his wife of 37 years, Linda B. Tallant Johnson, his best friend, Ann Bragg, and his four children, Christy (Jason), Cindy (Rick), Warren (Kim), and Cynthia (Fred). He was called “Papaw” by 15 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren. He has a brother, James (Barbara), and a sister, Joyce (John), along with many nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and dear friends.
Funeral service 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 10, 2026, at Frazer’s Funeral Home in Warren, Ark. Burial in Pattsville Cemetery.
There will be a celebration of life memorial service at First Baptist Church in Nashville in early Spring 2027 to be followed by an ice cream social. In lieu of flowers please make memorials to Arkansas Children’s Hospital.
