Rec Sports
Geraldine C. Johnson – The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint
Geraldine C. Johnson, affectionately known as “Ma Dean,” “John,” and “Grandma,” was born on June 8, 1951, in Montgomery, Alabama, to Lillian “Big Mama” Cooley and Leonard Johnson, who preceded her in death.
The family moved to San Diego in 1952, where Geraldine attended Balboa Elementary,
Memorial Junior High, Snyder Continuation Adult School, and San Diego City College. She remained in San Diego throughout her life. In 1975, she met the love of her life, Tommie Love Sr., and together they shared 50 wonderful years, raising three sons and one daughter.
Geraldine found her spiritual foundation at Ark Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Dr. Hollis Lee Pleasant Sr. She began singing in the youth choir, later joining the adult choir and helping to form a group called “The Arkettes.” Music, especially gospel, remained one of her greatest joys throughout her life.
Her nurturing spirit and love for people were evident in everything she did. She worked as a home care provider for IHSS and as a child care provider for the County of San Diego. Geraldine and Tommie were devoted supporters of youth sports and attended every game. She also coached T-Ball for the neighborhood team called “Hatfield Express.” In her younger years, she ran track for “Mickey’s Missiles” and was a proud fan of the San Francisco 49ers.
Geraldine enjoyed spending time at the casino, especially Jamul and Sycuan. She loved playing spades, dominoes, tonk, and board games. Always competitive, she was known as the “kitchen captain” and was famous for her delicious dobby sauce.
On Saturday, October 4, 2025, God called His servant home.
She was preceded in death by her sister Gloria Jean Hodrick, brother Gilbert “Sonny” Johnson, nephews; Curtis Lee Harris and Verlie Hodrick Jr., and best friends; Karol Moss and Lavarin Hicks.
She leaves to cherish her memory her loving husband of 50 years Tommie Love Sr., four children; Leonard Williams Sr. (Shanell), Tommie “Peanut” Love Jr., Maurice Love, and Nikita Love, foster son Michael Calimee Jr., sister Jackie McGee, best friend Joyce Suseberry, all of San Diego, 10 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren, 7 nieces, 7 nephews, 3 godchildren, and a host of great-nieces, great-nephews, extended family, and friends who will forever cherish her warmth, laughter, and loving spirit.