Cheryl Louise Johnson ran into the arms of her Lord on the morning of September 12, 2025.
She was born on June 6, 1955, to Henry and Shirley Fountain. From the beginning, she was surrounded by family - a big, lively family who shaped her heart and spirit. She was the second of seven children and grew up in a home filled with love, alongside her siblings, Ethel (Henderson), Christine (Parker), Twila (Allen), Helen (White), Henry, and Hilliard.
Cheryl’s greatest joy was her family. She was a devoted mother to Lauren Germany (Brad DePriest) and Joel Germany, who love her beyond measure. She also adored her “granddog,” Archie, and “grandkitty,” Tia.
Cheryl was a sister-in-love to Don Henderson, Brad Parker, Tom Baxivanos, Jackie Fountain, and Nancy Germany.
She was a proud and loving aunt to Karen Lewis (Doug), Michael Jones (Jaylee White and Sebastian), Neil Parker (Kelly Winborn), Henry Allen (Savannah, Beau, Wyatt, and Addalynn), Shannon Hackney (Ron, Aiden, Addison, Ace, and Ava), Jamie Richards (Jacob, Lilah, and Cooper), Adam Fountain (Everett), Amber Stratton (Steven), Jonathan Fountain, and Nathan Germany (Mackenzye).
Awaiting her arrival in heaven were her parents; her husband, Arland; her former husband and the father of Lauren and Joel, Robert Germany; and her grandparents, Hilliard and Ethel Slater and Joe and Mae Fountain.
Cheryl had a beautiful voice that could fill a room and soothe a soul. She loved sharing her gift of music - whether singing with the Ocean Springs Chorale, her church choir, or simply around the house. Music wasn’t just something Cheryl did; it was something she gave; a way she touched lives.
Her deep faith was the steady thread woven through her life. Cheryl first came to know the Lord at Belle Fountain Baptist Church and later found a church home at First Baptist of Ocean Springs, where she cherished her Women’s Group and Choir Family.
She had a gift for connection. Cheryl never met a stranger and had a way of making people feel seen, heard, and loved.
Her high school friendships from Ocean Springs High, Class of 1973, lasted a lifetime. Whether planning reunions or enjoying a Saturday brunch with the “Breakfast Bunch,” she found joy in bringing people together.
Cheryl worked hard and gave her best to every task. She was proud to be a legacy employee of Blossman Gas, following in her father’s footsteps, and later retired from the City of Valdosta.
Beyond her work, Cheryl was known for her generosity. In retirement, she volunteered with the auxiliaries of Ocean Springs Hospital and Keesler Medical Center, always finding ways to give back.
Cheryl was also a two-time cancer warrior. She defeated breast cancer earlier in life and later faced lung cancer with the same steadfast courage. She met each day with determination and tenacity - never once complaining, never asking “why.” Her only prayer was that God would use her testimony for His glory.
Those who loved her will remember her radiant smile, her big heart, her humor, and the way she lived out her faith through kindness. She made life brighter simply by being herself.
Cheryl’s legacy is one of love - for her family, her friends, her community, and her Lord. And though she will be deeply missed, her song will go on in every life she touched.
Lauren and Joel would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of the Singing River Cancer Center for their exceptional care and compassion. A special thank you goes to Dr. Greenfield and his dedicated team for their guidance and support throughout this journey. The family is also grateful to Dr. Persing and his staff, whose steadfast encouragement allowed Cheryl to keep moving forward.
The family is especially thankful to the staff of Hospice of Light, who gave Cheryl the gift of a peaceful transition.
To the members of Belle Fountain Baptist Church, First Baptist Church, and Northwood Church - the family was exceedingly blessed by your love, prayers, and unwavering support.
In lieu of flowers, Cheryl wished for her family and friends to consider a donation to Tired Dog Rescue, an organization close to her heart and reflective of her tender spirit.
A memorial service will be held in Cheryl’s honor at First Baptist Church, Ocean Springs on Saturday, September 20, 2025 at 1:00 p.m.
Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Homes is honored to serve the family of Cheryl Louise Johnson.
First Baptist Church of Ocean Springs
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