Obituary of Joe Wayne Johnson

Joe Wayne Johnson, 87, passed away on September 16, 2021.  Raised on a peanut farm in Miller County, Georgia, Mr. Johnson brought his family to Ocala in 1962, but always revered South Georgia for its industry and quaintness, returning frequently to visit family, friends and his childhood farm that he maintained until his death. As a young man, family affectionately called him “Pert” due to his good looks, an attractiveness that also extended inward, making him easy to like and easy to love.

Mr. Johnson attended Berry College in Rome, Georgia. It was here that he met his lovely wife of 66 years, Glenda.  They were married in Blue Ridge, Georgia in May of 1955. Mr. Johnson’s early career was spent in the Army, where he was stationed in Okinawa, Japan. After his time in the military, Mr. Johnson went to work for Certified Groceries. He invested in convenience stores throughout the county, “Joe’s Jiffy” being a favorite among many. Mr. Johnson enjoyed breeding and caring for his livestock, especially his cows.  He was famous for his beef jerky, smoked turkey and Boston butts that he would spend hours smoking to perfection on his farm in Fellowship; graciously gifting to friends and family on holidays or just because. But his greatest accomplishments were his daughters, Grace and Alyson. Collectively, they blessed him with seven grandchildren who were the eager recipients of his southern jokes and witty one-liners. 

Mr. Johnson was a member of Highlands Baptist Church of Ocala. He is survived by his wife Glenda (Cox); children Grace McGuire (deceased, Charley) and Alyson Ferrer (Mike); grandchildren Brittany Batsel (Rob), Charles McGuire (Jen), Lyndsey Landmann (Kyle), Emily McGuire (Dustin), Brandon Ferrer, Christian Ferrer, Riley Ferrer and great-grandchildren, Andie Batsel, Will Batsel, Mac Batsel, Owen Landmann, Hagen Landmann, Dawson Landmann and Colton Stewart. Mr. Johnson is preceded in death by his daughter, Grace McGuire.

In lieu of flowers the family is asking for donations to the Marion County Cattleman’s Association. 

A visitation will be held on Friday, September 24th at 9AM at Hiers-Baxley on State Road 40 in Ocala, followed by a graveside service at Highlands Memorial.