Gerald "Jerry" Johnston

Gerald "Jerry" C. Johnston, age 83, of Flushing, passed away on Tuesday, May 12, 2026. Visitation will be held at 4pm - 7pm on Sunday, May 17, 2026 and Sharp Funeral Homes - Miller Road Chapel. Visitation will resume the following day at 10am until the time of the Funeral Service at 11am on Monday, May 18, 2026 at Sharp Funeral Homes - Miller Road Chapel, 8138 Miller Road in Swartz Creek. Jerry will be laid to rest at Sunset Hills Cemetery in Flushing. Those wishing to write condolences may do so by visiting his obituary page which can be found at www.sharpfuneralhaomes.com.

Jerry was born on October 5, 1942, in Flint, Michigan to the late Clark & Sylvia (Halvary) Johnston. He graduated from Utley High School, class of 1960. He furthered his education at both Michigan State University and Flint Junior College. Jerry proudly served his country in the United States Army Reserves.

Those who knew Jerry knew that Jerry pride and joy was making music. His love of music began as early as his high school years where he joined the band and learned to play the trombone and baritone. This devotion stayed with him all his life. He played within the Army Band during his military service; and both Michigan State University Band and Flint Junior College Band. Later in life Jerry went on to play in the following: Genesee Wind Symphony, Flint Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Flint Concert Band, Genesee Valley Concert Band, Jazz Band and Polka Band. During his lifelong musical career Jerry made so many wonderful friends and it gave him lasting memories.

Jerry owned Ground Effects Maintenance Company, a landscaping business that served Genesee Country for over 40 years. Jerry never truly retried as he worked hard his whole life and did so proudly. Jerry adored his family, especially his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

He is survived by his wife, Barbara Johnston; 3 children, April (Phil) Hedrick, Amy (Nick) Calugaru and Alan (Tammy) Johnston; 5 grandchildren, Lauren (Corey) Lonsway, Nikolas Calugaru, Regan Hedrick, Avery Hedrick and Cade Johnston; 2 great-grandchildren, Emilynn Walter and Oliver Lonsway; 2 step-children, Mark (Andrea) Allen and Scott Allen and his only sister, Wendy Lawrence. Jerry is further survived by many other dear family members, friends and band members who shared with him a love of music.