Ferndale couple starts Marv Johnson Headstone Project

DETROIT (WXYZ) - A Ferndale couple tries to remedy an “unconscionable” crime against Motown greats.

Musicians John and CJ Milroy often visit the Woodlawn Cemetery in Detroit looking for the gravestones of Motown legends. They recently discovered at least two that were unmarked.

“John said, ‘Hey you know, there’s two guys in there that don’t even have head stones.,” remembered CJ. “We said, ‘Oh my gosh, this can’t be.’”

The couple recently raised $2,300 in less than a week to give a proper headstone to Uriel Jones. They’re now trying to generate $3,700 for a memorial bench for Marv Johnson.

Johnson was a Motown pioneer. He was on the record first made by the label, and went on to work with big names like Berry Gordy.

“It just seems like a great thing to do as a Detroiter to make sure these musical pioneers have a memorial and a headstone and a place for people to go to and visit,” said John.

Donations to the project can be made by visiting the Marv Johnson Headstone Project.