Joseph S. Johnson

Joseph S. Johnson, age 77, also known as “Joe” or “Josie”, of Dyer, IN passed away peacefully surrounded by family on Saturday, November 8, 2025. Beloved husband of Cheryl Johnson, nee Leicht. Cherished grandfather of Joshua, Nia, Emily, Serena, Jacob, Rose, and Lyndajia and great grandfather of Benjamin, Lucas, Aliyah, Jason, Alaina and 4 great-grandchildren who are in Heaven. Dear brother of the late Denzel (late Joanne) Sanders. Devoted uncle of Mark Sanders, late Tim (Cindy) Sanders, late Brian Sanders and other numerous nephews, nieces, great-nephews and nieces. 

Joe worked at various Ford dealerships for over twenty plus years. He had a passion for writing poetry and special letters to friends and family. Joe had a full life of adventures. He was an open-wheel race car driver, a past member of the Northwest Indiana Sports Club of America, an avid camper, a sponsor for Muscular Dystrophy camp-a-thons, a bowling coach, a Faith Formation Instructor, a 3rd degree member of the Knights of Columbus, a collector of cars, a player of cards, and a huge family man. He was loved by his family and friends and will be dearly missed. 

Visitation with family and friends will be held on Wednesday, November 12, 2025 from 3:00-8:00 p.m. with a prayer service at 6:00 p.m. at Smits Funeral Home 2121 Pleasant Springs Lane (Rt.30/Pleasant Springs Ln.) Dyer, IN. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations to the Ronald McDonald House as well as a GoFundMe Page to support the family with recent medical and unexpected expenses would be appreciated. 

For further information, please contact 219-322-7300 or visit our online Obituary and guestbook at www.SMITSFH.com