Dennis Michael Johnson

Dennis Michael Johnson, 75, of Murphysboro, Illinois, passed away on November 22, 2025.

Born on August 5, 1950, in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Vincent "Sparkie" and Margaret Johnson, Dennis grew up in Carlyle, Illinois. He spent his career working as a dedicated Laborer with Local 773, but those who knew him best knew that his favorite role in life was simply being a grandfather.

Dennis was a man who enjoyed the simple and important things in life: a cold beer, good fried chicken, and a long conversation. A devoted fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, he rarely missed a chance to cheer on his team. He was a friendly presence who loved to talk, but his greatest passion was always his family, especially his grandchildren, whom he adored.

He is survived by his wife of 49 years, Donna (Pulcher) Johnson; his son, Timothy Johnson and his wife Betty; and his daughter, Leah Stewart. He was the proud grandfather to Oliver Johnson and Kaylee Stewart.

He is also survived by his sisters: Kathleen Backs, Joann Gilbreth and her husband Mike, and Edna Jackson and her partner Steven Griego; as well as his brother-in-law, Edwin Koeninger.

Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Vincent and Margaret; his sister, Carolyn Koeninger; and his brother-in-law, Gerald "Dink" Backs.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Hospice of Southern Illinois for their compassion and care.

In accordance with his wishes, cremation has been accorded. To honor his memory, the family will hold a Celebration of Life after the holidays featuring a beer and chicken dinner—just the way Dennis would have wanted it.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to the Michael J. Fox Foundation or the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Ministry of Comfort lovingly entrusted to Southern Cremation and Burial Services of Murphysboro, Illinois.