In Loving Memory of Dennis “DJ” Laroy Johnson Jr.

Dennis “DJ” Laroy Johnson Jr., a devoted husband, son, brother, father, uncle, friend, and man of God, passed away peacefully on September 9, 2026, at the age of 42. Dennis was born on January 24, 1984, in Saint Paul, Minnesota to Dennis Johnson Sr. and Ceceila Johnson. He was the youngest of three brothers and a sister and was deeply loved by Nakia Glynn, Donzalo Blackburn and Ronald Blackburn.

Dennis lived a life marked by love, faith, perseverance, and a heart for the people around him. He gave his life to Christ at a young age and never looked back. He tarried long for the Holy Ghost, and when he received it, he ran to the altar with joy to let everyone know that “He Got It” He faithfully served in multiple ministries including the music ministry as a drummer, keyboardist, praiser, and choir director as well as a Minister of the Gospel. He was a gifted musician, an anointed preacher, and a man whose presence brought joy to so many. He had a genuine love for people, a heart for ministry, and a gift that blessed the Body of Christ both through the Word and through music. He loved the Lord and carried his faith with him through every season of life. No matter how difficult things became, he never stopped trusting God.

Dennis nicknamed himself the “Inspiring Motivator” and did weekly podcasts that combined his love of sports and love of God. He inspired many to keep running their race while also keeping them up on the latest Vikings stats. He was known for his loving heart and sense of humor. He embraced everyone no matter their status and had a way of making people feel loved from the first time you met him. To those who knew him best, he was someone everyone wanted to be around.

Dennis and Teneya shared a marriage of 14 years, building a life together through seasons of joy, challenges, laughter, faith, and everything in between. Their journey was uniquely theirs, filled with memories and moments that will forever remain a part of Teneya's heart. Their marriage was blessed with a son, Dennis Johnson III, lovingly known as D3. Dennis was a devoted and loving father, and the love he had for his son was a cherished part of who he was. Even after D3's passing at such a young age, Dennis carried his son's memory and love with him throughout his life. His love for his son never ended; it remained a lasting part of his heart and his story.

He was preceded in death by his only son Dennis Shiloh-Laroy Johnson III and his father Dennis Leroy Johnson Sr. He leaves behind his loving wife, Teneya Johnson, mother Ceceila “Jeanie” Johnson, sister Nakia Glynn, brothers Donzalo and Ronald Blackburn, and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends who loved him dearly.

His life was not without challenges, but Dennis faced them with strength and faith. His love for God, his family, and the people he cared about will remain a part of his legacy. Though our hearts are broken by his absence, we find comfort in knowing that his faith has carried him home. DJ will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.

Rest peacefully, my love. Until we meet again.