Jaron Ja’Corey Johnson was born on November 23, 2007, to Sherita Ellis and Jason Thomas. Throughout his life, Jaron was surrounded by the love, guidance, and support of many people who helped shape the remarkable young man he became. During his early years, he was lovingly raised by his great-grandfather, William Sapp Johnson; his grandmother, Sherri Matthews; and his special aunts, Linda B. and Britnee. He was embraced and supported by many caring members of his community who poured love, encouragement, and wisdom into his life. Later, Jaron was welcomed into the loving home of John and Joshalyn Gholston, who raised him as their son with unwavering love, guidance, and support.
On Sunday, July 5, 2026, Jaron gained his wings and went home to be with God. He was preceded in death by his great-grandparents, William Sapp Johnson and Shirley Geneva Johnson, and his grandfather, John Gholston Sr.
Above all, Jaron was a child of God. He accepted Christ and was baptized at an early age at First Baptist Church. Throughout his life, he remained active in his faith, worshiping with friends at several churches throughout the community and participating in Chrysalis, an experience that strengthened his relationship with Christ. Jaron loved studying the Bible and found joy in helping his friends discover God and grow in their faith. His love for Christ was evident through his compassion, kindness, and the way he encouraged others.
Jaron was a young man who truly lived with purpose. He had a smile that could light up a room and a personality that made everyone feel welcomed and valued. To know Jaron was to love him. He was kind-hearted, funny, compassionate, and full of life. He loved his family deeply, treasured his friendships, and always found ways to support and encourage those around him.
Jaron was an exceptional student-athlete whose commitment, discipline, and strong work ethic were reflected in everything he did. He maintained an impressive 3.8 GPA while challenging himself through Dual Credit and Advanced Placement courses. He was a dedicated member of the Beta Club, served as a United Minds Student Ambassador, and was a respected leader in the Taylor County Youth Coalition. Jaron had a passion for serving others and using his voice to create positive change. Through his leadership, he advocated for his peers, met with legislators, and worked to support the passage of drug prevention initiatives aimed at protecting the youth in his community. His desire to make a difference showed the compassion, maturity, and leadership that made him an inspiration to those around him.
Athletics were a major part of Jaron’s life. He was a superstar three-sport athlete who excelled in basketball, football, and track. His talent, determination, and leadership helped lead his teams to multiple district and regional championships across all three sports. One of his greatest athletic accomplishments came during his eighth-grade year when he became the State Champion in the triple jump. Jaron’s competitive spirit, commitment to excellence, and love for his teammates made him a true leader both on and off the field.
As Jaron prepared to begin his senior year, he was filled with excitement and anticipation for the future ahead. He enjoyed visiting college campuses, exploring new opportunities, and planning the next chapter of his academic and athletic journey. Jaron dreamed of becoming a lawyer and was determined to use his passion, intelligence, and dedication to make a difference in the world. With his bright future ahead of him and his unwavering drive to succeed, there was no limit to what he believed he could accomplish.
Jaron leaves to cherish his memory his parents: John Gholston and Joshalyn Gholston; his biological parents: Sherita Ellis and Jason Thomas; his brothers: Keonta Johnson, JeKwan Gholston, John Gholston III (J3), King Ellis, Sirr Ellis, and Samore Jae Johnson; his sisters: Myricle Gholston, Destini Gholston, and Unyke Snead; his nephew, Malcolm Gholston-Diallo; his grandmothers: Sherri Matthews, Belinda Gholston, and Almeta Shively; his aunt, Jolana Shively; his uncles: Shawn Johnson (Tanisha), Antaeus Simmons (Liz), and Demetrius Gholston (Denise); his great-aunts: Linda B. Johnson and Britnee Williams (Trevon); special cousins: Antasia Simmons and Ruthie Ross; and his special girlfriend, Noreen Malakai.
He also leaves behind a host of family members, extended family, church family, teammates, classmates, and friends who are too numerous to name but who loved him deeply and will forever cherish his memory.
Jaron had a special way of making people feel seen, valued, and loved. He touched the lives of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.
Jaron was an amazing son, brother, uncle, grandson, nephew,cousin, boyfriend, friend, and teammate. He gave love freely, encouraged others, and brought joy wherever he went. His faith, laughter, determination, kindness, and genuine heart created memories that will never be forgotten.
Though Jaron’s time on earth was far too short, his legacy will continue through the countless lives he touched. He will forever be remembered as a young man who loved God, loved his family, loved his friends, and inspired others to be their best. His memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
Funeral service: 12:00 P.M. Saturday , July 18, 2026 at Taylor County High School, with Rev. Doretha Sanders officiating
Visitation: Friday, July 17, 2026 from 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M at First Baptist Church Campbellsville
Hayes Brothers Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
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