Jerie Jean Johnston, a creative spirit with a life full of elegance, artistry, and love, passed away peacefully on May 19, 2025, at the age of 83 in Long Grove, Illinois.

Born on February 11, 1942, in Lincolnwood, Illinois, Jerie's artistic gifts and radiant presence shaped every part of her life. She attended Roycemore College Preparatory School in Evanston, followed by Niles East High School. Pursuing her passion for the arts, she earned a degree in Fine Arts from The American Academy of Arts in Chicago—a foundation that fueled her creative pursuits.

Jerie brought her talents to Rand McNally and made her mark illustrating ladies' fashion for newspapers. Her elegance extended beyond the page, as she also worked as a model. In 1962, she was honored with the title of Miss Marine Raiders, a tribute to the elite World War II Marine units known for their bravery at Guadalcanal and Okinawa, Japan. That same year, she stood proudly at a major event hosted at McCormick Place before a crowd of 60,000 people, where beloved Chicago radio personality Sig Sakowicz (WGNN/WMAQ) gave a stirring speech after spending several hours aboard the USS Daniel, a battleship anchored in Lake Michigan—a ship Jerie herself had toured that day.

Jerie was also a dedicated entrepreneur. She founded and owned Sequoia Industries, channeling her creativity and business acumen into a successful venture that reflected her independence, vision, and drive.

Her personal life was filled with love and devotion. She was married to William F. Gutowsky and later to Michael Jon Cahill. She was a beloved mother to her four children: Gina (Charles) LoBello, Craig (Brigitta) Gutowsky, Philip Gutowsky, and Angela (Jeffrey) Corgiat. She was also a proud and cherished grandmother to Zachary Higginbotham, Nicholas Gutowsky, Anthony Gutowsky, Dominic Corgiat, Angelina Chiola, Ava Gutowsky, and Gianna Corgiat.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents, Eugene and Edwina May Johnston.

Jerie's life was a beautiful blend of artistry, strength, resilience, and care. She will be remembered not only for her many talents and accomplishments, but for her grace, warmth, and unwavering love for those around her.

Her memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.

May she rest in peace in Heaven.

Funeral service details will be shared with family and friends