Gerald Francis Johnson, 83, of West Hartford, died peacefully at home after a long illness. He was born January 21, 1939, in Hartford, son of the late James R. and Mary Ethelreda (Reynolds) Johnson. He grew up on Terry Road in Hartford and moved to West Hartford in mid-life.
 
He was a veteran, having served in the US Army. He was awarded a Good Conduct Medal and a Letter of Commendation upon discharge. Gerry spent his career at the Automobile Association of America in West Hartford, from which he retired after decades of service.
 
Gerry was devoted to his mother Ethel and spent years caring for her after his father’s death. He was a devout Catholic who volunteered for St. Thomas Church, and often left family gatherings early because he had to “close the Church”.
 
Gerry was an avid fan of "Law & Order", graduating to the CSI series later in life. One of his favorite meals was a pizza from the First & Last Tavern in Hartford. His eyes would always light up at the mention of it. A man of good humor & ironic wit, it is hard for those who knew him not to smile when thinking of him.
 
Gerry leaves behind two nieces, Victoria Underwood of Winsted, CT and Linda Grigerek, of St. Petersburg, FL. He was predeceased by his sister Rita Bakulski and his brother Richard Johnson.
 
The family would like to thank and honor his wonderful caregivers: Cora Wedderburn, who devoted many years of her life to his round the clock care, Jennifer Brown who has helped many of the Johnson family remain home in their later years, and Petal Benjamin-Robinson and Grace Tetley for their devoted service and the support they provided to Cora. Gerry may have challenged them, but he loved them all.
 
A memorial mass of Christian Burial will be held at 11 am on Thursday, (March 3) at St. Brigid Church, 1088 New Britain Avenue, West Hartford, CT 06110. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to St. Brigid Church.  A private burial service will take place at a later date.  Online condolences may be made at www.SheehanHilbornBreen.com