Jeremiah Yoseff Johnson, a beloved son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin, and friend, passed away on October 5, 2026, and entered into the presence of his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Though his life was far too short, Jeremiah touched countless lives with his kindness, sharp wit, infectious laughter, and deep empathy for others. 

 Jeremiah was born on March 20, 1999, in Ridgewood, New Jersey, to Rev. Yeathus Johnson and Katherine McCalla. He was the beloved brother of Isaiah Johnson. 

From a very young age, Jeremiah loved the outdoors—anything and everything outdoors. He would perform flips on the family trampoline as though it were nothing, and that adventurous spirit eventually led him to pursue snowboarding. He began snowboarding at just six years old and developed a deep love for the sport, eventually aspiring to become a semi-professional snowboarder. While Jeremiah snowboarded, his brother Isaiah enjoyed skiing, and the two shared their love of winter sports. 

But snowboarding was only one of Jeremiah’s many passions. He enjoyed skiing, biking, swimming, skateboarding, making music, cooking, archery, and gardening. Remarkably, he seemed to have a natural gift for almost everything he attempted. 

Did you know that Jeremiah was a classical pianist? His mother made sure he practiced throughout the week, and those lessons eventually led him to play keyboard on rotation at the family’s home church in Jersey City.

 Jeremiah was also an accomplished athlete. He played baseball, football, and basketball and excelled in tennis, earning All-Passaic County honors. After graduating from high school, Jeremiah went on to pursue his passion for cooking and became a sous chef. In his twenties, he also took up weightlifting — and, yes, he was proud of that six-pack! If you knew Jeremiah, you probably heard about it or saw it for yourself. 

Yet, beyond his many talents and accomplishments, what made Jeremiah special was the way he connected with people. Jeremiah loved late-night conversations. He could call one of his aunts and easily talk for more than an hour. He was the friend who listened without judgment, the brother who knew how to have fun, and the son who brought joy to his family. He had a remarkable gift for making people feel seen and heard. Jeremiah's laughter was unforgettable —warm, genuine, and capable of lighting up a room. He carried an extraordinary capacity for love and compassion and was simply gifted in so many ways.

 Jeremiah faced personal challenges throughout his life, but his struggles never defined him. They were only one part of a complex, beautiful soul who continued to search for meaning, purpose, love, and connection.

 A New Beginning in Christ 

 In February 2026, Jeremiah made one of the most important decisions of his life: he committed his life to Jesus Christ. He shared with his father about his new faith in Christ and spoke about leaving behind the life he had previously lived. Jeremiah wanted a new beginning. 

He moved to Denver, Colorado, seeking that fresh start, and began working for his teenage friend, Matthew Luis, as the marketing director for Matthew's painting business. Although Jeremiah experienced physical challenges and lived with significant pain, he continued moving forward and seeking a better life. We are grateful that, in the final season of his life, Jeremiah experienced the transforming hope of Jesus Christ. 

 Until We Meet Again 

 We thank God for the 27 years He entrusted Jeremiah to us. Although we desperately wish we had been given more time, we are grateful for every laugh, every conversation, every adventure, every challenge, every accomplishment, and every precious memory. 

We believe Jeremiah is now resteng in the loving arms of Jesus. No more sickness. No more pain. No more struggles. No more tears. 

 Only peace! 

Sleep in peace, Jeremiah. We will love you, miss you, and cherish your memory for the rest of our lives. 

Between our two families, Jeremiah is the first of four generations to enter heaven. We can only imagine the welcome he has received—and imagine how he will greet each of us when our journey on earth is complete, as we too commit our lives to Christ. Until that day, we will carry Jeremiah in our hearts. 

With Gratitude 

The Johnson and McCalla families would like to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who loved Jeremiah and brought joy into his life. 

A special thank-you goes to Alyssa Jackson and her family for loving, supporting, and caring for Jeremiah for several years. Your love and kindness toward him will never be forgotten. 

We also sincerely thank everyone who has called, texted, sent messages, prayed, offered words of encouragement, and contributed financially to help ease the unexpected financial challenges our family is facing during this difficult time. Your love, generosity, prayers, and support have reminded us that we do not have to walk through this season alone. We are grateful for every person who was part of Jeremiah's journey. 

 A Final Blessing 

“The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace.” — Numbers 6:24–26, ESV 

 Rest well, Jeremiah. You are loved. You are missed. You will never be forgotten. Until we meet again. ❤