Jennifer C. Johnson

Jennifer C. Johnson M.D., a dedicated physician and cherished member of the community, passed away peacefully at her residence on September 20, 2025, just days shy of her 86th birthday. Born on September 30, 1939, in Holdenville, Oklahoma, she grew up in Gleason, TN and lived a life marked by compassion, dedication, and a lifelong commitment to the betterment of others.

Dr. Johnson pursued her education with determination, first attending Lambuth University and subsequently earning her medical degree from the University of Tennessee Medical School in Memphis. Her passion for medicine led her to a celebrated career as a physician, where she touched countless lives through her practice—including two decades at the Jackson Clinic. Colleagues and patients alike admired her dedication to healthcare, characterized by the profound care she extended to each individual she encountered.

She is survived by her adopted family: Ray and Tammie Van Neste. Dr. Johnson’s legacy continues through her grandchildren: Nathaniel Van Neste (Tori), Matthew Van Neste (Bethany), Jonathan Van Neste (Ally), Benjamin Van Neste (Alyssa), Abigail Van Neste, and Timothy Van Neste. Additionally, she was a proud great grandmother to Titus, Levi, Peter, and Emmett Van Neste, each of whom brought immense joy to her life.

Dr. Johnson is also remembered by her brothers, Jerry F. Johnson and Billy Wayne Johnson; and her sister, Leana Dawn Mason.

She now joins her departed loved ones, including her father, W.D. Johnson, her mother, Bertha Mai Johnson, and her siblings: Andrew D. Johnson, Betty Lee Wright, Rogerlene Maddox, and Rayma Nelcene Dunning.

SERVICES:  A funeral service will be held 1:00 p.m. Wednesday, September 24, 2025, at First Baptist Church of Jackson. The family will receive friends from 12:00 p.m. until the service time. The burial will follow at Hopwell Cemetery in Gleason, TN.  Friends and family are invited to join to celebrate her remarkable life and the impact she had on so many. In lieu of flowers, please make memorials to Union University School of Theology and Missions, https://uu.edu/advancement/giving/ or First Baptist Church Missions Fund, https://fbcjackson.org/give/.

Dr. Jennifer C. Johnson M.D. will be remembered not only for her professional contributions but also for the love and warmth she shared with her family and friends. Her spirit will continue to inspire those who knew her, and she will be profoundly missed.