Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home Obituaries

About Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home

Located in the heart of Norristown, Pennsylvania, Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home has been providing compassionate and professional funeral services to families in the area for many years. With a commitment to excellence and a dedication to honoring the memories of loved ones, this funeral home has established itself as a trusted and respected institution in the community.

A Legacy of Service

Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home has a rich history of serving families with dignity and respect. The funeral home's founder, Richard C. Johnson Jr., was driven by a passion to provide exceptional care and support to those who have lost a loved one. Today, his legacy continues through the dedicated team of professionals who strive to exceed expectations and deliver personalized funeral services that meet the unique needs of each family.

Funeral Obiturary Search

Explore our extensive database to find and remember the lives of loved ones through millions of heartfelt obituaries

Search

Recent Funeral Home Obituaries

Khamari Stephon Sowell-Hemingway - July 21, 2021 - May 13, 2024

Departed: 05/13/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Khamari Stephon Sowell-Hemingway.

View Full Obituary

Marilyn Ellen Ramsey - July 15, 1954 - April 30, 2024

Departed: 04/30/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Marilyn Ellen Ramsey.

View Full Obituary

John Henry Steele Jr. - November 07, 1952 - April 27, 2024

Departed: 04/27/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for John Henry Steele Jr..

View Full Obituary

Dolores Marie Kearns - July 07, 1945 - April 24, 2024

Departed: 04/24/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Dolores Marie Kearns.

View Full Obituary

Sandra Marie Smith - August 19, 1961 - April 18, 2024

Departed: 04/18/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: Sandra (Sandy) Smith, 62, was born on August 19, 1961, to the late Ronald and Marjorie (Davis) Byrd. She went to be with the Lord peacefully on April 18, 2024.

On November 10, 1984, she married the love of her life Ernest J. Smith. From this union they were blessed with three children: Nicole Elyse, Jessica Marie and Ernest III. Their union lasted for 40 years.

Sandy was born and raised in West Mount Airy in Philadelphia, PA. She attended St. Madeleine Sophie Catholic Church. She later became a member of Mt. Zion A.M.E. Church in Norristown, PA.

Sandy was educated in the Philadelphia School District and graduated in 1979 from Philadelphia High School for Girls. She was on the tennis team and in the annual gymnastic competition. Sandy attended Clark College, now called Clark Atlanta University, and was on the tennis team. It was during her time at Clark that she became a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated, Sigma Chapter in Fall 1980. Sandy also took accounting courses at the University of Pennsylvania.

Sandy loved her family and enjoyed Sunday dinner with her late mother (Marjorie), late mother-in-law (E. Pearl), daughter Jessica, grandchildren Jason and Janna and often her son Ernest Smith III and daughter-in-law Julia. She had signature recipes that included homemade chili, baked beans, potato salad, baked ziti, fried catfish, and yellow cake with chocolate icing for her husband’s birthday every year.

She loved hosting holidays with traditions unique to her. She collected snowmen decorations of all kinds, from placemats, saltshakers, stuffed animals, and a toy that would spit out jelly beans that her grandchildren affectionately nicknamed “Poop the Snowman.” She kept bins of Easter eggs specifically for an annual egg hunt, which was originally for the kids in the family but often featured adults getting in on the fun as well.

Sandy was steadfast when it came to reaching her goals, something that showed in her career path toward becoming Director of Human Relations Operations at Vishay Intertechnology in Malvern. That determination showed up in her personal life, too. She was an avid walker, sometimes covering 10-plus miles to her daughter’s house at a pace that would make her children blush. She loved the Norristown Farm Park and would do TV fitness classes in the winter, walking in place and stepping side-to-side in the living room. The only reason she made a Twitter account was to follow her favorite walking instructor.

Sandy’s determination was never more apparent than during her years receiving treatment for Acute Myeloid Leukemia, which she handled with grace and selflessness throughout. Through the unfairness of it all, she remained a caregiver who looked after her family as much as they looked after her.

She is survived by her husband, Ernest James Smith: 3 Children, Nicole Elyse, Jessica Marie and Ernest Smith III (Julia). 2 Grandchildren: Jason Eli and Janna Marie. 3 Sisters: Deborah Byrd, Patricia Russell (Courtney) and Rochelle Grady (Cleveland) and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews.

Sandy was preceded in death by her parents Majorie Byrd and Ronald Byrd. Sister, Rhonda West. Father-in-law, Ernest G. Smith, Mother-in-law, E. Pearl Smith.

View Full Obituary

Valerie Ann Hall - November 30, 1960 - April 16, 2024

Departed: 04/16/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Valerie Ann Hall.

View Full Obituary

Joe B. Collins - July 08, 1950 - April 16, 2024

Departed: 04/16/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Joe B. Collins.

View Full Obituary

Mack A. Gaudin - June 18, 1951 - April 12, 2024

Departed: 04/12/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: On Friday, April 12, 2024 the Lord called Mack Aloysius Gaudin home. Mack was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on June 18, 1951 to the late Gertrude Julien Gaudin and Melvin Gaudin Jr. At the age of 15, Mack graduated high school from the prestigious all-black Catholic high school, St. Augustine. He then graduated with a bachelor’s degree in computer science from Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Mack then went on to receive his master’s degree from Villanova University. He worked in the Aerospace and Defense industry for over 50 years as an engineer and systems integrator, working for General Electric, Lockheed Martin, Systems Integrator, Perspecta and Peraton.

He was an avid reader and critical thinker. He loved to read books on a variety of topics, including race relations, science and mathematics. Mack was quite the outdoorsman. He loved to run, whether it be participating in the Broad Street Run in Philadelphia, or daily jogs or hiking in Valley Forge Park. In his earlier years, he loved to swim, to scuba dive, to drive his TR-7, and ride his motorcycle.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife Margaret (“Cissy”) Gaudin, his 5 children: Tara Williams (Kevin), Nia Sowell (Stephen), Stephanie Butler (Paul), Lauren Christian (Philip) and Grace Gaudin; and his 8 grandchildren: Trevor Gaudin-Knight, Mya Humphries, Alexander Butler, Julien Butler, Ethan Butler, Lena Sowell, Ava Christian and Isabelle Christian. He also leaves behind 7 siblings: Jeffery Gaudin (Sharon), Maude Gaudin, Gregory Gaudin (Denise), Eleanor Gaudin, Beverly Thomas, Kevin Gaudin, and Brenda Harris; his Aunt and Uncle Janice and Charles Schonberg, and a tribe of nieces, nephews and cousins.

View Full Obituary

Jason Lee Graham - February 12, 1977 - April 10, 2024

Departed: 04/10/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Jason Lee Graham.

View Full Obituary

Alton M. Irby - April 23, 1963 - April 01, 2024

Departed: 04/01/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: Alton M. “Punchy” Irby, 60, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, April 1, 2024, in Norristown, Pennsylvania.

Alton was born on April 23, 1963, in Crewe, Virginia. His family moved to Conshohocken, Pennsylvania where he grew up, attended Colonial School District, and graduated from Plymouth Whitemarsh High School.

He worked as a Shop Foreman at A.J. Catagnus, and recently started his own landscaping business - Blades Grass Cutting Service. Alton was a hard worker and an avid movie collector. He was also a problem-solver who often took on unwanted projects both at work and at home. He also had his own garden and 10 chickens. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and all who knew him.

Alton is survived by his three daughters: Kayla Garforth, Brooklyn Krause, Devona Rivera, and grandson Jake. His mother and stepfather: Sylvia and Bobby Pettis of St. Pauls, North Carolina. Six brothers: Henry, Eric (wife Diahann), John Ray (wife Nikki), Jiles, Lydell, and Bobby (wife Nicole) all of Pennsylvania. Two sisters: Lakisha (husband Darren) of St. Pauls, North Carolina), Janet (Shay) of Crewe, Virginia, and a host of aunts, nieces, great-nieces, great-nephews, and cousins.

He is preceded in death by his sisters: Felicia Irby, Laveta Irby, and Rose Pettis. “Dad, your guiding hand on my shoulder will remain with me forever” Brooklyn

View Full Obituary

Denise Maxine Green - August 06, 1957 - March 22, 2024

Departed: 03/22/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Denise Maxine Green.

View Full Obituary

Joyce Gooden - March 04, 1951 - March 20, 2024

Departed: 03/20/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Joyce Gooden.

View Full Obituary

Meredith Marie McFadzean - May 19, 1954 - March 18, 2024

Departed: 03/18/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Meredith Marie McFadzean.

View Full Obituary

Katherine Ann Wallace - November 07, 1938 - March 13, 2024

Departed: 03/13/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Katherine Ann Wallace.

View Full Obituary

Thomas L. Rhoades Sr. - July 16, 1931 - March 12, 2024

Departed: 03/12/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Thomas L. Rhoades Sr..

View Full Obituary

E. Pearl Smith - November 23, 1938 - March 09, 2024

Departed: 03/09/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: E. Pearl Smith, 85 was born on November 23, 1938, in Norristown, PA to the late Thomas and Laura (Springer) Anthony. She went to be with the Lord peacefully on March 9th, 2024, in Collegeville, PA.

On April 28, 1956, she married the love of her life Ernest G. Smith. From this union, they were blessed with four sons: Gary Darnell, Ernest James, Thomas Lee (Tony), and Darian Neil. Their union and love story lasted for 60 years.

E. Pearl was born and raised in Norristown. She attended Mt. Zion A.M.E Church and attended Sunday School throughout her childhood. She joined Mt. Zion A.M.E. as a 13-year-old in 1951 under the leadership of Rev. Steward. Pearl’s spiritual journey started that year after the loss of her mother as she matured and sought God for comfort. At that time she surrendered her life to God in the quietness of her bedroom, she prayed for guidance. Immediately she knew God had given her the strength to live a life that was pleasing in his sight. Since then she was guided by God to Study His Word and to live in a Christian way. She chose to be baptized because she wanted to follow Jesus and this was the direction that she felt God wanted her to go to be complete in serving Him. During her teenage years she joined the Junior Choir, and the Young People’s Division (YPD). She enjoyed singing so she also joined the Young Adult Choir, Celestial Choir and the Chancel Choirs.

Her love of music carried on throughout her life. She played the organ with a natural ear for chords and harmonies.

She later served on the Steward Board for 45 years. She also held the title of Steward Board Secretary for 28 years. She was very active in the church and served on many committees including Secretary of the Stewardship and Finance Committee (28 years); President and Secretary of the Cooperative club (2 terms); organized the Youth New Members class; Chaired and Co-chaired several Women’s Day celebrations; Coat & Soup Ministry; Dinner and Concert event; Quarterly Conference Secretary; Class Leader; Scholarship Committee; and the Lay Organization.

E. Pearl was active in her community as well. She was a member of the Business and Professional Women’s Inc. and received the Woman of the Year award in 1998-1999. Her accolades also included the Elwood Lodge #438 Community Service award in 2011, the George W. Commandery Award in 2003; the Norristown Educational Foundation Service Award; and the Distinguished recognition from the Pennsylvania School Education Association (PSEA). Pearl was elected as a director of the school board at Norristown Area School District (NASD), a position she held until she retired in 2016. During her tenure on the school board, she served as the chair of the Education Foundation’s technology committee; was a board representative of the NASD Foundation and co- chair of the budget committee. She held many more titles, including Joint Operating Committee Chair for the Central Montgomery County Technical High School, assistant Region 11 director, Liaison for the Pa. School Board Association on the governance and by-law committees and held the same title for the Norristown School Board as well as serving as the minority representative.

In addition to her School Board responsibilities, she was also a volunteer for the American Cancer Society’s Road to Recovery and a lifetime member of the Philadelphia Purchasing Association’s ad hoc Diversity Committee. In addition to all of her community and volunteer work she worked as a purchasing agent for the Central Montgomery County Technical High School. -

E. Pearl was a proud mother and grandmother exclusively known as “Grandmom” even to her great grandchildren. She had a license plate that read “Let me tell you about my grandchildren” that made its way onto several cars over the decades and had the stories about her family ready for any who would listen. She had a colorful collection of hats she’d wear to Sunday service, which she’d attend before joining family members for a ritualistic Sunday dinner often with a dish stowed in a crock pot for everyone to enjoy. She’d often have a designated seat in the rooms she frequented, preferably a rocking chair where she could watch the children in her family play on the floor.

She is survived by two sons: Ernest James (Sandy) of Norristown and Darian Neil (Dawn) of Downingtown: Daughter-in-law Lisa Beeler Smith of Collegeville. 7 Grandchildren: Nicole, Jessica, Ernest (Julia), Mariah, Devven, Darian, Dane. 4 Great Grandchildren: Keymoni, Jason, Amiyah, Janna. Brother Robert (Mae) Anthony, Sister Christine (Stanley) Saunders. 2 Brother-in-laws: Walter and Willie Lee Smith, Saluda, SC; 1 Sister-in-law, Dorothy Smith Glenside.

View Full Obituary

Paul Duke Austin - September 01, 1935 - March 05, 2024

Departed: 03/05/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Paul Duke Austin.

View Full Obituary

Marvin Earl Darnell Murph - June 29, 1985 - February 29, 2024

Departed: 02/29/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: Marvin Murph was born on June 29, 1985, to Earl Murph and Ava Jackson in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania. On Friday, February 29, 2024, at the age of 38 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania he quietly departed this earthly life.

Marvin graduated from Roosevelt High School in Norristown, Pennsylvania. Marv, also known as ”Mdott”, had a love for video games and was a wonderful artist, along with Rap music. Enjoyed time with family and gatherings.

He was a proud father of two children Brooklyn and Gianna.

Marvin leaves to cherish his memories his father Earl Murph, stepmom Elizabeth; children Brooklyn and Gianna; Brothers: Malik, Mike, Dion, Earl Jr., Earl, Victor; Sisters: Elena, Shantai, and Ebony.

Other relatives: Aunt Ursela, Uncle Barry, Uncle Edward, Uncle Emmet, Uncle Fred, and grandmother. And a host of friends.

He was preceded in death by his mother Ava Jackson. Sorrowfully the Family

View Full Obituary

Gerald Richard Shockley Jr. - August 20, 1968 - February 24, 2024

Departed: 02/24/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Gerald Richard Shockley Jr..

View Full Obituary

Gloria Jean Giddens - January 31, 1950 - February 20, 2024

Departed: 02/20/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: Gloria Jean Giddens age 74 of Norristown, Pennsylvania peacefully passed away on Tuesday, February 20, 2024, having succumbed to a prolonged illness. She was born in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania on January 31, 1950, to William C. Batchler and Marion F. Batchler. Miss Americana was the endearing nickname given to Jeanie by her father.

Gloria, for 52 years was the wife of Clifford A. Giddens and a loving Mother to Clifford A Giddens II (Krystine). And an enormously proud Grandmother to granddaughters Ananda and Ava.

Upon graduating from Plymouth-Whitemarsh High School, Gloria’s career path began at Quaker Chemical Company in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania as a Supervising Secretary. She continued with Lockheed Martin in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania as an Administrative Assistant until she retired.

Proceeded in death by parents William C. Batchler and Marion F. Batchler. Deceased siblings include Donald L. Pherribo, Christiana Pherribo Davis, Minnie Pherribo Bonaparte, Valeria Wilson, and Phyllis Wilson.

Jeanie is survived by a brother, William C. Batchler (Patricia), two sisters, Phyllis A. Batchler-Sunkett and Cynthia L. Batchler, as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Greatly loved and deeply missed by her family, friends, and all who knew her. Rest in peace, Miss Americana

View Full Obituary

Kenneth James Lowery - September 06, 1960 - February 19, 2024

Departed: 02/19/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Kenneth James Lowery.

View Full Obituary

Maria Hernandez Alcala - January 19, 1986 - February 09, 2024

Departed: 02/09/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Maria Hernandez Alcala.

View Full Obituary

Pamela D. Bellamy - July 24, 1959 - February 08, 2024

Departed: 02/08/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Pamela D. Bellamy.

View Full Obituary

David Russell Moore - May 16, 1955 - February 03, 2024

Departed: 02/03/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for David Russell Moore.

View Full Obituary

Juanita Jessie - August 25, 1959 - January 26, 2024

Departed: 01/26/2024 (Norristown)

Obituary Preview: An obituary is not available at this time for Juanita Jessie.

View Full Obituary

123Next ›Last »

Facilities and Amenities

The funeral home is located at 800 W. Main Street, Norristown, PA, 19401, and offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for families to gather and celebrate the life of their loved one. The facilities are modern and well-maintained, providing ample parking and easy accessibility for all visitors. The chapel is spacious and elegantly decorated, accommodating large or small gatherings with ease.

Funeral Services Offered

Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home provides a range of funeral services designed to meet the diverse needs of families. From traditional funerals and memorial services to cremations and celebrations of life, the funeral home's experienced staff will guide you through every step of the planning process. They understand that each family is unique, and they take pride in crafting personalized services that reflect the personality and spirit of your loved one.

Cremation Services

In addition to traditional funeral services, Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home also offers cremation options for families who prefer this type of disposition. Their cremation services are designed to be dignified and respectful, ensuring that your loved one is treated with care and compassion throughout the entire process. From direct cremation to cremation with a memorial service, the funeral home's staff will help you navigate the options and make informed decisions.

Pre-Planning Services

Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home understands that planning ahead can bring peace of mind and relieve some of the burden from your loved ones during a difficult time. Their pre-planning services allow you to make arrangements in advance, ensuring that your wishes are respected and your family is protected from unnecessary stress and financial burdens.

Community Involvement

The team at Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home is committed to giving back to the community they serve. They participate in local events, sponsor charitable organizations, and provide educational resources to help families navigate the grieving process. By being an active part of the community, they demonstrate their dedication to supporting those in need.

Contact Information

If you're seeking more information about Richard C. Johnson Jr. Funeral Home or would like to schedule a consultation with one of their experienced funeral directors, please don't hesitate to reach out. You can contact them by phone or visit their website to learn more about their services and facilities.

Address: 800 W. Main Street, Norristown, PA, 19401

Phone: [insert phone number

Email: [insert email

Website: [insert website

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an obituary?

An obituary is a written notice that announces the death of a person, typically including their name, age, date of birth and death, and a brief biography. It may also include information about their surviving family members, funeral arrangements, and any other relevant details.

Why are obituaries important?

Obituaries serve as a way to honor and celebrate the life of the deceased, while also providing important information to friends, family, and community members. They can also be a valuable tool for genealogists and historians.

Who typically writes an obituary?

The task of writing an obituary usually falls to the family members or close friends of the deceased. In some cases, a funeral home or crematorium may offer to write the obituary on behalf of the family.

What information should be included in an obituary?

A typical obituary should include the person's full name, age, date of birth and death, place of residence, occupation, hobbies, achievements, and surviving family members. It may also include information about funeral services, memorial donations, and other relevant details.

How long should an obituary be?

The length of an obituary can vary depending on the publication and the wishes of the family. Typically, it should be concise and to the point, ranging from a few sentences to a few paragraphs at most.

Can I include photos in an obituary?

Yes, many publications allow you to include one or more photos with the obituary. This can be a great way to personalize the tribute and make it more meaningful.

What is the difference between an obituary and a death notice?

A death notice is a brief announcement of someone's passing, usually including only the basic facts such as name, age, and date of death. An obituary is a more detailed tribute that includes additional information about the person's life.

How do I submit an obituary to a newspaper?

You can usually submit an obituary to a newspaper by email or through their website. Be sure to check their specific guidelines and deadlines beforehand.

Can I write my own obituary?

Yes, it is becoming increasingly common for people to write their own obituaries before they pass away. This can be a therapeutic exercise and ensure that your life is remembered exactly as you want it to be.

What is the cost of publishing an obituary?

The cost of publishing an obituary varies depending on the publication and the length of the notice. Some newspapers offer free or low-cost options, while others may charge by the line or word.

Can I publish an obituary online?

Yes, there are many online platforms where you can publish an obituary, such as memorial websites, social media, and online obituary databases. These can be especially useful for reaching a wider audience.

How long does it take for an obituary to be published?

The timeframe for publishing an obituary can vary depending on the publication's schedule and deadlines. Typically, it will appear within a few days to a week after submission.

Can I make changes to an obituary after it has been published?

In most cases, it is not possible to make changes to an obituary once it has been published. Therefore, it's essential to proofread carefully before submission.

What if I want to keep the funeral private?

If you wish to keep the funeral private, you can still publish an obituary without including details about the service. You can instead mention that a private ceremony will be held or that memorial donations can be made in lieu of flowers.

Can I include humor in an obituary?

Absolutely! An obituary is a celebration of life, so feel free to inject some humor or personality into the writing. This can help make it more engaging and memorable.

How do I handle sensitive information in an obituary?

If there are sensitive issues surrounding the person's death or life, it's best to approach them with tact and discretion. You may want to consult with other family members or friends before deciding what to include.

Can I publish an obituary for someone who died many years ago?

Yes, you can still publish an obituary for someone who passed away many years ago. This can be especially meaningful if you're creating a family history or genealogy project.

What if I'm unsure about certain details in the obituary?

If you're unsure about certain facts or dates in the person's life, don't hesitate to ask other family members or friends for clarification. You can also try researching public records or archives for verification.

Can I use an obituary as a template for other types of tributes?

Absolutely! The structure and content of an obituary can serve as a model for other types of tributes, such as eulogies, memorial speeches, or even social media posts.

How do I preserve an online obituary over time?

You can preserve an online obituary by saving it as a PDF or printing out a hard copy. You may also want to consider creating a permanent memorial website or archive.

Can I include quotes or lyrics in an obituary?

Yes, including quotes or lyrics that were meaningful to the person can add depth and personality to the tribute. Just be sure to verify copyright permissions if necessary.

What if I need help writing an obituary?

If you're struggling to write an obituary, consider enlisting the help of a friend or family member. You can also seek guidance from a funeral home or professional writer.

Can I update an existing obituary with new information?

In some cases, it may be possible to update an existing obituary with new information. However, this will depend on the publication's policies and procedures.

How do I ensure that an online obituary remains accessible over time?

To ensure that an online obituary remains accessible over time, consider using reputable online platforms that have a long-term archiving policy in place.