Vernell McGuire-Johnson's Obituary
Vernell McGuire-Johnson was born on February 20, 1967, in Jackson, Michigan, to the
late Richard McGuire, Sr. and Rhodene Oliver. She went home to be with the Lord on
February 24, 2025, with her loving husband and mother by her side.
Vernell Graduated from Jackson High School in 1985. While in high school, Vernell ran
track and developed a strong sense of discipline and perseverance that would carry her
through life.
After high school, Vernell worked at her uncle’s store, scooping ice cream and learning
the value of hard work and customer service. Vernell was employed for over 31 years
with Libra Industries as a Quality Inspector, where she was known for her diligence and
attention to detail. She retired from Libra in 2019.
Vernell met the love of her life Albert Johnson in 2000. They were married in June 2004.
Last year, they celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary!! Vernell and Albert’s love is a
testament to commitment, faith, and unwavering support. They shared a special bond
that remained strong through health and sickness. Vernell was blessed to have a
partner who cared for her in such a godly and loving manner.
Throughout her life, Vernell shared an unbreakable bond with her mother, Rhodene
Oliver. Their relationship was built on love, trust, and unshakable support. Rhodene was
not only Vernell’s mother but a great source of strength. Whether celebrating life’s joys
or facing its hardships, they stood by each other with a deep and abiding love.
Vernell has always been a strong, caring, fearless and dedicated person who
persevered through many challenges. Her strength was really seen, as she dealt
courageously with multiple illnesses in her last few years. She found peace at the end of
her life, always trusting and believing in God. Her faith never swayed as she continued
to inspire those around her.
Vernell had a zest for life and a passion for adventure. She REALLY loved to travel and
experience new things, whether fishing, bowling, horseback riding, or trying new
cuisines. She enjoyed a variety of music, plays, and shows, always embracing culture
and entertainment. More than anything, she cherished her family and friends and was
deeply loved by those who knew her. Towards the end of her journey, one of her
greatest wishes was for people to love and care for one another.
If you ever spent time with Vernell, you quickly noticed her passion for research and her
vast knowledge across various subjects, especially policies, law, and medicine. Vernell
was a selfless person who always sought ways to help those in need. Her kindness and
generosity were evident in the way she spoke uplifting words and offered a warm smile,
no matter how she was feeling. Albert often called her a “Big Trooper,” a true reflection
of her strength and resilience.
Vernell is survived by her husband, Albert Johnson; mother, Rhodene Oliver;
grandmother, Josephine Oliver; godmother, Janet Nichols; mother-in-law, Doris
Johnson; brothers, Dennis McGuire and Richard McGuire; sister, Diane (McGuire)
Selby; stepchildren, Jessica (Brian) Yonnick, Albert (Diego) Rizzo-Johnson and Tylor
Johnson; step-grandchildren, Leilah, Adia, and Cruz; cherished friend, Yvette
Swint-Blakely; special sisters and brothers-in-law: She also leaves behind a host of
nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, extended family, and friends who will forever treasure her memory.
What’s your fondest memory of Vernell?
What’s a lesson you learned from Vernell?
Share a story where Vernell's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Vernell you’ll never forget.
How did Vernell make you smile?
