Gordon Johnson

Gordon “Gordy” Lee Johnson lived a simple life, yet left an unmeasurable mark.

Born June 12, 1932, in Zanesville, Ohio to Clarence and Grace Johnson; parents who instilled in him a fierce love for family that has been passed down for generations. He led by example, setting the bar high, expecting you to rise to it. While Gordy could be a tough critic, he was also our biggest cheerleader. He was there for every moment, both small and monumental; never missing a game, a christening, a choir concert, or a kindergarten graduation.

Gordy married his high school sweetheart, Judith Kay, on May 13th, 1954, before being deployed for the Korean War. Stationed in France for two years, he often joked that the only combat he encountered was from the opposing baseball players, as they spent their days playing stickball. Once he returned home, the couple would go on to have three children. Gordon spent their childhood being Mr. Mom, excelling in the role. Any time outside of Brockway Glass was devoted to raising his children.

A man of strong faith, Gordy was a lifelong and active member of St. Nicholas Catholic Church. When he was able, he rarely missed Mass, and his devotion shaped the way he lived—with consistency, humility, and unwavering love for his family.

Retiring in 1994 after 44 years as a forklift operator, Gordy stepped into his greatest role to date, Grandfather. Receiving countless mugs, t-shirts, cards, and hats, proclaiming he was the “Best Grandpa Ever” were rightfully earned. No man loved being a grandpa more than Gordy.

When Gordy was not taxiing his grandchildren around, he spent his time in nature. Hunting and fishing brought him years of joy, while years of walking in the woods would become his daily refuge. Sitting on his favorite log, he would feed the birds for hours on end. Later watching hummingbirds held a special place in his heart. The only thing he might have enjoyed more was playing cards. Guinness World Records should be consulted with the number of games of Hausey that were played during his lifetime.

Summers were spent at his beloved Northside Beach and later, at Lake Isabella. He had a tan envious to many, and the man could make a friend anywhere. Gordy had a way of leaving impressions across all of Muskingum County with his quick wit, cheeky jokes, and warm presence. By the end of his life, he had become something of a local treasure.

Gordy is survived by his children, Jennifer Johnson, Jerry (Jody) Johnson, and Stephanie Johnson; his brother, Jeff (Lori) Johnson; many nieces and nephews; and his grandchildren, Lindsay (Brian) Cressman, Taylor (Nick) Roberts, Macey (Jonah) Carson, Javan Johnson, Isabella Cox, Sydney Johnson, Josie Johnson, and Alaiah Johnson. He also leaves behind his cherished great-grandchildren, Bella, Piper, Greyson, Colbie, Tucker, Amelia, Cooper, and Houston.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Clarence and Grace Johnson; his wife, Judy; his siblings Keith (Carolyn) Johnson and MaryAnn (Jim) Worstall; and his grandson, Kahleb Brosie.

Per his request, he wanted to mention his love of sports. While recent years were spent watching his beloved Buckeyes and Reds, seems he was quite the athlete in his day. Playing softball, tennis, horseshoes, racquetball, shuffleboard, bowling, and basketball for decades. There wasn’t a sport he didn’t excel at. Except golf… he jokes that if the weeds were the fairway he would have gone pro.

Ending his obituary feels wrong. Imagining a world without him is unfathomable. While we take comfort in knowing he is at peace in heaven with those who went before him, the loss is profound. Gordy lived simply, loved deeply, and gave endlessly – leaving behind a legacy that will continue through every person who had the privilege of loving him.

Memorial contributions can be made in Gordy’s name to Nationwide Children’s Hospital Foundation, P.O. Box 16810, Columbus, OH 43216-6810.

The Bryan & Hardwick Funeral Home, 2318 Maple Ave. Zanesville, is in charge of the arrangements. To share memories and condolences with Gordy’s family please visit www.BryanHardwickFH.com.