Jerri Yvonne Evans

On November 21, 2022, Miss Jerri Yvonne Evans was called home to join our Lord and Savior at her eternal resting place, surrounded by her loving family. Her parents, Willie Frank & La Vinia Ruth and brother Thomas welcomed her with open arms through the gates of heaven.

Miss Jerri, or Aunt Jerri, as she was affectionately known, made her grand entrance on October 19, 1966, in Elyria, Ohio. She spent her childhood looking after younger family members, learning to cook, and dancing. 

It was during her adolescence; she took a keen liking to the caring profession. After graduating from Elyria High School, Jerri went on to complete a nursing program through Lorain County Community College, earning her Licensed Practical Nurse status. She was a prominent and ethical nurse. She took her oath and expectations to heart and gave the profession her all. Jerri earned several accolades, including the Exceptional Service Award from the Lorain County Board of Developmental Disabilities in 2016. She also earned the Loretta Clifford Nursing Award from the Negro Business and Professional Women in 2018. She could be spotted sporting her Murray Ridge gear on any given day. She was a proud and effective employee for the agency for over 26 years.

Ms. Jerri spent a lot of time in the community, volunteering her services at a variety of events. She assisted with the Second Harvest Food Bank distributions at the church, worked in Special Olympics, and completed Walks for Autism for Spectrum School annually. Jerri found her niche in the special needs' population. She was like an angel on Earth, treating all with dignity, respect and giving them a sense of being.  

Jerri was an active member of Greater Victory Christian Ministries (GVCM). She served on the Praise and Worship team, a founding member of “Elevate” children’s ministry, the church nurse and a member of the culinary team. She took pride in her duties as a servant of the Lord, and all her family members knew if you stayed over the weekend, “bring some clothes for church.” Prior to her membership at GVCM, Jerri formed relationships and studied God’s word at Church on the North Coast under the leadership of Louis and Tina Kayatin.

Miss Jerri impacted all the lives she came into contact with. She treated everyone fair and with an undoubtingly amount of love. Her genuine spirit made all who knew her trust and confide in her. These qualities played a positive role in the lives of youth placed in her care through Lorain County Children Services. Jerri fostered hundreds and maintained those relationships even after their transitions. She treated everyone as family and consistently opened her home to help all.

Jerri loved her traditions. She was the timekeeper of the family. Her home was the headquarters for all gatherings, especially the annual cookie operation. Each year, she transformed her kitchen into a bakery for the family; young and old, to work on the world-renowned cookie recipe. She took pride in continuing these traditions and could be seen glowing in photos each year teaching the kids the ropes. Aunt Jerri gave everyone she met a nickname. I bet you smiled thinking of what she lovingly called you. 

Jerri loved to travel and take road trips. She found relaxation in new scenery and breathtaking views. She would try to capture every moment with a picture. She invested her time in home improvement projects, gardening, plants, bingo and attending festivals & parades. Jerri loved the latest technology, garage sales, and her Beanie Babies. 

Jerri leaves to cherish her memory: three children, Dwayne (Hollie) Johnson of Columbus, OH; Jazmine (Antwan) Wooten, of Strongsville, OH and Byron (Carianna) Johnson of Lorain, OH; two sisters, La Vinia (Tinker) of Cleveland, OH and Ernestine (Vickie) of Lorain, OH, two brothers, Anthony and Willie III of Lorain, OH; eleven grandchildren: Aryoni, Antwan III, Zyon, Carisma, Elijah, Azaryha, Azayah, Micah, Anyla, Nitro, & Baby Johnson. She leaves a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and other relatives and friends. 

Friends will be received Wednesday, November 30, 2022, at Greater Victory Christian Ministries, 559 Reid Ave, Lorain, OH.

The viewing will begin at 10AM with service starting at 11AM.

Burial will be at Brookdale Cemetery, Elyria followed by a Celebration of Life at Picture Perfect Event Center, 403 Cleveland St, Elyria from 2-5 PM.

Funeral arrangements entrusted to

Carter Funeral Home Inc.

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