WAYCROSS — Mr. Johnny Lee Geiger, 79, of Waycross, passed away peacefully at his residence on the afternoon of Saturday, March 22, 2025, following an extended illness.

Born on May 21, 1945, in Fitzgerald, Geiger was the beloved son of the late Willie Lee Geiger and Kathryn Williams Geiger. He was also preceded in death by his devoted wife of 54 years, Rochelle White Geiger; his sister, Sandra Studstill; his niece, Patricia Studstill; and his son, Johnny Lee Geiger, Jr.

Geiger spent the majority of his life in Waycross where he built a lasting legacy of love, service, and hard work. A proud veteran, he served in the United States Navy during the Vietnam War and later continued his duty in the Navy Reserve for two additional years. Geiger’s time of service shaped his strength, discipline, and deep sense of responsibility.

He went on to have a successful career as a District Manager with United Family Life and Miles-Odum Funeral Home. Later, Geiger pursued entrepreneurship and opened Johnny’s Food Store while standing faithfully beside his wife, Rochelle, in her work at Rochelle’s Day Care Center.

After many years of dedication to his career and family, he retired approximately 15 years ago.

Geiger was a true outdoorsman. He found his greatest peace on the water fishing for bass or in the woods hunting with his sons. He also loved to cook and grill, often gathering loved ones around the table for food made with his signature care and flavor. Of all his accomplishments, none brought him more pride than his family.

Geiger was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather. His love was unwavering, his presence comforting, and his guidance deeply valued. He lived his life with quiet strength, humor, and an enduring love for those closest to him.

Survivors include his loving children, Stacy Frazier (Kim) of Waycross, Regina “Gina” Kay Bryson see OBITS, Page 5A (Tony) of Waycross, Tania Melissa Daughtry (William) of Folkston and John Ed Geiger of Nahunta. He was the proud grandfather of: Jake Griffin, Victoria Weathersbee, Carrie Harrison, Bailey Kish, Grant Geiger, Evan Geiger, and Kylan Daughtry; and the cherished great grandfather of 10 beautiful great grandchildren.

Geiger also shared countless good times with his lifelong friends, Steve, Sonny, Tommy, Eddie and many more often over a Budweiser and lots of laughter. These friendships, forged over decades, were a treasured part of his life.

He will be remembered as a man of honor, love, humor, and unshakable devotion. His memory will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

A funeral service will be held at 2 p.m. today (Wednesday, March 26) at the Music Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery with military rites.

Sympathy may be expressed by posting to his tribute wall at www.musicfuneralhome. com.

Music Funeral Home is in charge of arrange-