Geraldine R. Littlejohn, known fondly to friends and family as Gerri, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family in Knoxville, TN. Born on September 18, 1945, to the late Will Riddle and Hattie Mae Billingsley Riddle, Gerri was a beacon of faith, wisdom, and love throughout her blessed 80 years of life.

Gerri's formative years were spent in the warm embrace of Knoxville, where she attended Austin High School, demonstrating her athletic prowess on the basketball court. Her love for sports was only eclipsed by her dedication to her studies, a pursuit she continued at Knoxville College. Gerri's academic journey laid the foundation for her to serve her community with distinction.

After eight years of committed service at Knoxville College, Gerri joined the University of Tennessee as a Program Resource Specialist. Her remarkable tenure at UT spanned 35 years, during which she touched innumerable lives through her work, until her well-earned retirement. Gerri's unwavering dedication to her vocation left an indelible mark on those who had the privilege of working alongside her.

A devoted Christian, Gerri's faith was the cornerstone of her existence. She found profound joy in attending church and living out the teachings of Christ. Her faith-filled life was a testament to her belief in love, kindness, and the power of prayer. She inspired many through her steadfast commitment to her faith and the grace with which she led her life.

Gerri's loving spirit was the heart of her large, cherished family. She was predeceased by her beloved husband, Otis Littlejohn Jr., and her precious daughter, Pamela Littlejohn Harshaw, alongside her dear grandson, Demon Floyd Jr. She was also preceded in death by her parents, Will and Hattie Mae Riddle; brothers Gilbert Laverne, Paul Lawrence, and Kearn Riddle; her sister, Elizabeth Kaye Riddle Hill; and sister-in-law, Kimberly Riddle.

The legacy of her love and warmth is carried on by her children, Stacy Littlejohn McCall (Kenneth), Otis Littlejohn III (Goldie), and Justin Littlejohn. Her siblings, Joyce Ann Riddle, Willie Jo Harold (Willie), Carrie Jean Simmons, Patricia Medina Felts, Ethel Faye Epps (John), Kimberly Marlese Taylor (James), William Riddle (Frances), Archie Lynn Riddle, and Jeffrey Allen Riddle, will hold close memories of her wisdom and guidance. Her ten grandchildren and twenty-five great-grandchildren will continue to be nurtured by the love and faith she instilled in them.

Those who knew Gerri will remember her as the epitome of wisdom; a woman whose love knew no bounds and whose life was a living example of her faith. She was a matriarch in the truest sense, with a heart that encompassed not only her family but all who crossed her path.

Gerri's departure leaves us with heavy hearts, but we rejoice in the knowledge that she has been welcomed into the arms of our Heavenly Father. We envision her now, whole and at peace, surrounded by the celestial love she so richly deserves. We bid her farewell with the comfort that in Heaven, we will one day be reunited. Until then, we will honor her memories by living lives that reflect her wisdom, love, and faith.