News Summary
The communities of Bowling Green and Scottsville are in mourning after the recent passing of three cherished residents: Michael Louis Brown, Martha Reid Burge, and Jerry Lenvil Johnson. Each individual contributed greatly to their families and the community, leaving behind lasting legacies of love and service. Memorial services are being held to honor their lives and the impact they made on those around them during their lifetimes.
Bowling Green and Scottsville Community Mourns the Loss of Local Residents
The heart of Bowling Green and its nearby town of Scottsville has been heavy this March, as we say goodbye to three beloved community members: **Michael Louis Brown, Martha Reid Burge, and Jerry Lenvil Johnson**. Each of these individuals touched the lives of so many, and their memories will forever be cherished by their families and friends.
Michael Louis Brown: A Skilled Brick Layer and Community Pillar
Michael Louis Brown, aged 74, passed away on March 12, 2025, at Magnolia Village in Bowling Green. A Scottsville native, Michael spent his life shaping bricks and building dreams as a talented brick layer. He was also an active member of Wards Chapel AME Church, where his loving spirit and kindness surely made an impact on many congregants.
Michael was born to the late Joseph Lewis Brown and Zula Soules Bradshaw, and leaves behind a loving family. His daughter, **Megan Calderon** and her husband **Raynado** reside in Bowling Green and are part of his legacy, which also includes three grandchildren: **Alicia, Adrian, and Charlotte**. He was a father figure to **Stephen Goodbar** and his wife **Andrea**, demonstrating his role as a supportive and loving presence in their lives.
His family tree flourished with connections, including a step-brother, **George Bradshaw** from Scottsville, and a niece, **Tina Kelsey**. Although he was preceded in death by his infant sister **Valorie Brown**, sister **Donna Kelsey**, and niece **Nicole Brown Elkins**, his memory will certainly live on through those who loved him. Friends and family can pay their respects at a graveside service at **Crown Hill Cemetery** on Tuesday at 12 PM, officiated by **Rev. Louis Haynes**.
Martha Reid Burge: A Life of Service and Love
Martha Reid Burge, at the age of 82, passed on March 14, 2025, at the Hospice House in Bowling Green. Originally hailing from Lafayette, TN, she was the daughter of the late Marcus Otto Fuqua and Lillie Mae Reid Fuqua. Martha was a retired employee of the well-known **Eli Lilly Company**. Her spirit of giving extended to volunteering at **Skeleton’s Lair** and participating in the **LivActive Rock Steady Program for Parkinson’s**.
Married to her husband **Charlie Burge** for a remarkable 62 years, Martha shared her life with him along with their daughter **Amy Lynn Burge**. Her family also includes a niece, **Joyce Garrison** and her husband **Al**, along with their children and great-great nephews. Although she mourned the loss of her son, **Jeffrey Allen Burge**, her legacy of care and compassion blossoms through generations.
In a simple choice for her final journey, Martha opted for cremation, and there will be no formal visitation or funeral services at this time. Arrangements are handled by **Goad Funeral Home**, allowing her family to cherish the memories they have without a public farewell.
Jerry Lenvil Johnson: A Community and Family Man
Lastly, Jerry Lenvil Johnson, 67, passed away on March 16, 2025, at The Medical Center in Bowling Green. A proud native of Edmonson County, Jerry graduated from Edmonson County High School in 1976. He dedicated many years to his role as a retired employee at **Leggett & Platt** and was an active member of the **Sunny Point General Baptist Church**.
Jerry was the son of the late Denvil Johnson and Justine Sowders Johnson. He is remembered fondly by his wife, **Sandra Kay Simpson Johnson**, and his daughter, **Jennifer Sholar** along with her husband **David**. The joy in Jerry’s life also came from his two grandchildren, **Gavin** and **Ava Sholar**.
Funeral services for Jerry will take place at **Sunny Point Church** on Thursday at 1 PM, with burial to follow in the church cemetery. Friends and family may visit on Wednesday at **Gravil Funeral Home** from 2 PM to 7 PM and again at the church from 10 AM until service time on Thursday. Jerry’s warm presence and dedication to his family and community will be sorely missed.
As our community mourns these three wonderful individuals, let us celebrate their lives and the love they poured into the lives of others. Each one has left a lasting impact that will not soon be forgotten, and our thoughts are with their families during this difficult time.
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Additional Resources
- WCLU Radio: Michael Louis Brown
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- WCLU Radio: Martha Reid Burge
- Google Search: Martha Reid Burge
- WCLU Radio: Jerry Lenvil Johnson
- Google Scholar: Jerry Lenvil Johnson
- Legacy: Michael Brown
- Encyclopedia Britannica: community grief
- Hero Sports: College Football Transfer Portal Tracker
