Johnny Gerald Brown

 Johnny Gerald Brown, born and raised in Blairsville, GA, was always a hardworking country boy at heart. Even when life carried him to other places, his heart never left these mountains, and he always dreamed of returning home.

As a young boy, Gerald worked at Vogel Horse Stables, where he found joy and pride in breaking horses, training them, and leading trail rides. He also spent time working at the experimental research station in Blairsville.

After graduating, he moved to Atlanta and began working for the water company, where he stayed for several years. From there, he moved to Morrow and took a job with the American Can Company, where he dedicated 14 years of service. Never one to stop learning, Gerald went back to school for HVAC training, which led to him being recruited to Grady Memorial Hospital’s engineering department. He served faithfully there for 24 years.

During many of those years, Gerald would travel back to Blairsville on weekends, where he and his wife Charlene were building their retirement homestead. Once retired, he returned fully to the mountains he loved.

Retirement for Gerald was not about slowing down—it was about enjoying the simple things he valued most. He spent his days gardening, putting away food, fishing, and sharing time with family. Always generous, Gerald was quick to offer his tractor, truck, or simply his strong hands to anyone who needed help. He taught those around him, especially his family, that strength wasn’t about being the loudest in the room—it was about showing up, being steady, dependable, and true.

He was never more at peace than with a hot cup of coffee in hand, watching the sunrise over Brasstown Bald from his front porch—or on his tractor, bush hogging his land. But what made him happiest of all was laughter shared with family. Even in difficult times, he wanted to lighten the room and see people smile.

Gerald proudly served his country with honor during the Vietnam War. As an Infantry Sharp Shooter with the famed 2nd Armored Division, “Hell on Wheels,” he displayed extraordinary courage and dedication on the battlefield. His bravery and sacrifice were recognized with three Purple Hearts, a testament to the challenges he faced and the resilience he carried throughout his life. Gerald’s service was not only a reflection of his strength and commitment to his fellow soldiers, but also of the deep love he held for his country.

Beyond his work and his service, Gerald’s greatest pride was in his role as a father, grandfather, husband, uncle, brother and friend to everyone. He raised his daughter with the same toughness, independence, and work ethic that guided his own life. He believed in teaching strength—not just the kind you use in hard labor, but the kind you show when you are there for your family, no matter what. He lived with courage, with integrity, and with a heart bigger than words can describe. 

Gerald leaves behind a legacy of strength, generosity, laughter, and love. His family will carry with them the lessons he taught, the example he lived, and the bond of love he gave so freely.

   Funeral services will be held on Saturday August 30. 2025 at 3:30 pm at the Mountain View Chapel with Rev. Bill Nicholson officiating. Special music will be presented by the Pine Top Quartet. The following gentleman will serve as pallbearers, Jamie Arp, Shane Dyer, Cody Norton, Terry Stover, Jeremy Stover and Michael Williams. Serving as honorary pallbearer will be Tristan Arp. Flowers are accepted or if you wish donations may be made to Tunnell To Towers in Johnny’s memory. Military Honors will be conducted by the North GA Honor Guard. Interment will follow in the New Liberty Baptist Church Cemetery. The family will meet with friends at the funeral home on Saturday from 1:30-3:30 pm.

   Mountain View Funeral Home of Blairsville is in charge of the arrangements. You may sign the family guest book and send condolences online at www.mountainviewfuneralhome