In Loving Memory of Jerdean Johnson of City of Memphis Sanitation Department

Jerdean Johnson

Company: City of Memphis Sanitation Department

Years of Service: 20

Comments: Jerdean Johnson, a city of Memphis sanitation worker for 35 years, died of a heat stroke in August 2011. According to the lawsuit filed on behalf of Johnson's family, the temperature was 93 degrees inside his Orange Mound apartment at the time of his death.

“He's been working for the city for years and nobody know him,” said Johnson’s niece Lois Taylor when we first spoke to the family in 2011. “He can't get nothing until this happens.”

We will not forget you, Jerdean Johnson.


Together, let’s honor the memory of the men and women who have served by our side. Whether on the garbage trucks, delivering portable sanitation units, or working in the offices and repair shops, the employees of our industry serve important roles and are very special people. As we remember this fallen hero of the waste industry, we join with their family and co-workers to honor their service.