Jerome "Pokey" Johnson was born in Blakely, Georgia September 1, 1959, to Della Mae Johnson and
Milton Wade.

He was educated in the Early County School System and actively participated in various student organizations and activities.

Jerome was a loving son, father, grandfather, brother, nephew, cousin, and friend who was full of life; was a wonderful inspiration to others; and his actions and kind deeds spoke loudly. As a young man and aspiring entrepreneur, his biggest dream was to open an event center where citizens of Early County could enjoy social gatherings. This dream was realized when "CoCo's" was birthed—one of his greatest accomplishments. What was even greater was his unending love for family and friends, and his philanthropy in the community. If he could help you, he did it from his heart.

Even in death, he was able to save lives by being an organ donor. Jerome was a legend who left a legacy that will long be remembered.

On October 6, 2022, Jerome transitioned from this earthly life at Southeast Medical Center in Dothan, Alabama. He was preceded in death by his daughter, Jaquetta Sparks; and his stepmother, Helen Wade.

Loving memories will forever be cherished by his wife of 45 years, Pamela Sparks-Johnson; his parents, Della Mae Johnson of Blakely, GA and Milton Wade of Tampa, FL; eight children, Janessyn (Michael) Wright of Orlando, FL, Raheem Sparrow of Dothan, AL, Jamal Freeman of Fredrick, MD, and Jakeia Sparks, Jetobia (Donald) Freeman, Jeronica Sparks, Cedric Eaford (Cassandra), and Ilam Gilbert all of Blakely, GA; siblings, Katrina Thomas and Sharon George of Blakely, GA, Tracy Johnson of Leesburg, GA, and Cassandra (James) Lee, Wonder Wade, Lisa Wade, Tangie Wright, Twila Daniels, Tommy Wade, Ronnie (Lawana) Wright, and Marvin Lyles all of Tampa, FL; a very special uncle, Roy Dawson; 14 grandchildren and 8 great grandchildren; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, including Will Davis, Donald Wright, Khiry Thomas, Charles Eafford, Byron Sands, Ben Williams, Ryan Spann, Jackie Wade, and Joseph Thompson.