It is with hearts unimaginably heavy that we share the passing of our beloved daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece and friend, Nykeria Laniya Johnson, affectionately known as Keri. At just 18 years old, Keri was called home following a tragic accident in Waynesboro on Saturday, May 23, 2026. A Celebration of Life was held Saturday, May 30, at 11 a.m. at St. Philip Missionary Baptist Church.
Keri was born January 25, 2008, in Swainsboro, to Tahara and David Johnson. She was a recent graduate of Swainsboro High School, Class of 2026, where she carried herself with quiet strength and a gentle smile. Keri’s heart was as generous as it was brave. Her life was a radiant beam of kindness and possibility, a light that warmed every room and every soul she touched. Cooking was Keri’s love language and delighted in experimenting alongside her siblings, learning treasured family recipes from her mother, and serving up meals that tasted like home. Keri is cherished beyond words by her parents, three sisters and brother. Miss Johnson was welcomed into eternity by her grandmother, Dollie Gardner; and uncle, Robert Johnson.
Miss Johnson is deeply loved and missed by her parents; sisters, Danielle Johnson, Mckenzie Johnson and Delilah Batts; brother, Cameron Tarver; grandmother, Rose Scott; aunts, Tayonna Scott and Starkelia Scott; uncles, Quientaz Scott, Brandon Gardner, and Travis Smiht; and a host of extended family, classmates, mentors and friends whose lives are brighter because of her.
Mosley’s Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
