| Johnnie Dennis Jr. |
| July 22, 1961 - October 10, 2020 |
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Public Events and LocationsViewing - Friday, October 23, 2020, 9:30 to 10:15 AM at Ivy Hill Cemetery, PhiladelphiaFuneral Service - Friday, October 23, 2020, 10:15 AM at Ivy Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia Graveside Service - Friday, October 23, 2020, 11:30 AM at Ivy Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia Reception - Friday, October 23, 2020, 12:15 PM at To Be Determined, |
ContactsMetropolitan Funeral Service - 501 Easton Road, Willow Grove, PA 19090 - 215-659-6400 - Map |
| Ivy Hill Cemetery - 1201 Easton Road, Philadelphia, PA 19150 - 215-248-4533 - Map |
Johnnie Dennis Jr., was born on July 22nd, 1961 in Philadelphia, PA, to the late Marie Roane Dennis and the late Johnnie Dennis Sr. He was raised in West Philadelphia and attended Blankenburg Elementary, Salisbury Jr. High, and Overbook High school.
Growing up, he was the middle child surrounded by his sister Delores Dennis-Clayter (deceased *Michael Clayter), and his sister Crystal Deniece Dennis of whom he is survived. He took great pride in handling the responsibility of being the only male to look after and care for his two sisters and as a result the three of them shared admiration for one another in a loving relationship that was truly inseparable.
After the passing of his parents, he went on to live with his grandmother and then he resided with his favorite uncle George Dennis and his wife Virgina who he would later refer to as his second mom.
He spent his young adulthood as a fiesty, courageous, determined and protective big brother to his sister Crystal and gained the nick named "Lefty" after he became well known for teaching family members how to fight. He was also known as Jr., Dennis, and Mr. D. He was a friend to many and always kept a smile on his face while sharing a lifelong friendship with Whitey, his best friend. The two formed a close, warm hearted, and binding relationship that can only be categorized as brothers. The unconditional love they had for one another kept them linked together for more than 50 years.
He remained employed in the transportation industry throughout his entire career. As an adult, he ultimately developed into becoming an adventurous family man who enjoyed spending time with his niece (Janay), Nephew (Eddie), children and grandchildren. He would always gather the family for outings of jet skiing, whitewater rafting, going to the beach, parasailing, paintballing, skiing, amusement parks and more.
His hobbies included photography, painting, buying antiques, riding his motorcycle, attending car shows, and listening to music with one of his favorite songs being "Call me the traveling man" (Masquerades). He was humorous and would keep listeners deeply engaged and amused whenever he would share one of his entertaining stories.
Johnnie was also blessed to establish a unique long loving relationship with Mattie, the mother of his children, who exemplified the love of Christ throughout his illness and remained stedfast by his side until the day of his departure.
He is the proud brother, uncle, father, and grandfather to:
Delores Dennis Clayter (sister), Crystal Deniece Dennis (sister), Eddie Maurice Brown Jr. (nephew), Christen Janay Brown (niece), Michael Jerome Clayter (nephew), Durrell Jarric Clayter (nephew), Mahoghany Marie Gamble (daughter), Mandez Hassan Gamble (son), Malia Nicole Gamble (granddaughter), Royce Alejandro Gamble (grandson). He also has a host of aunts, cousins, uncles, and God children who love him dearly.
God blessed Johnnie Dennis Jr. with the opportunity to live a joyous fulfilled life and in return he left countless memories in the hearts and minds of everyone he encountered. He is now in the arms of his Heavenly Father making confession of his belief before his departure that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Hallelujah!
Tributes:
If I could write an open letter to "Brother"(that's what I called him). I would tell Brother how thankful I am to him and for him! We were separated as children but he always kept a bonding relationship with Delores and I. I want to let him know how much I appreciated the time and effort he put into spending time with us. From the picnics, to the amusement parks, taking us to the movies, Penn's Landing, and so many others. I could go on all day! I wish people could imagine a teenage boy wanting to take the time out to have special moments for his sisters. Most boys that age don't even want to be bothered (smile). My brother was "amazing" in a paternal way. I am now a mother of two wonderful children and I am fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to watch Brother reproduce that same adoring relationship with his neice and nephew as he did with me and my sister. They loved him dearly! He took them on so many adventures just the same as he did with me and Delores. The children would return home and excitedly talk about motorcycle rides, firecrackers, picnics, amusement parks and so much more! Y'all get the picture right? Anyway, what he created for all of us were ever lasting memories. He gave us himself, his love, and his time. We will always love and admire Brother. He was and is forever precious in our hearts ❤️ ~your Sister Crystal
To my brother, my oldest, and dearest friend. My love for you will never end. The Lord sent his angels to give you your wings and you will be greatly missed. When he gives me mine I'll see you again. So one love brother, as you used to say; and I will continue to carry that saying until my last day~Whitey aka Gigantor and underdog forever. Your brother for life and eternally.
Dad aka pops aka my #1 fan!
Thank you for helping me become who I am today. Thank you for being a role model. Thank you for spoiling me and Mahoghany and for keeping us rich and wealthy with the abundance of your love! Thank you for being an incredible Grandpa! Thank you for being extremely supportive in any and everything I've ever done! Words can't even describe how pivotal you were to me and to many others. It was a blessing to hear my friends praise you because you demonstrated the actions of a loving father. Thank you Johnnie Dennis! You will forever be missed! Rest easy pop! With love! ~Your son Mandez- aka- Trendz
Uncle Dee,
I don't have many words today to describe how I feel, but I can say that God is healing our family and we are learning to remember the best of times despite not being able to feel and touch you. We know that you are watching over us. You are truly the world's greatest uncle, even on your resting day. Because of you I'll never forget that mediocracy has no place in our family. Thank you for teaching us all how to live life to the fullest. Thank you for all the amazing adventures. And thank you for the unconditional love....Because goodbyes are permanent instead I'll say, "see you later" ❤ Heaven has truly gained the most beautiful angel. You will be missed deeply.
Forever in my heart. Love always, your niece Janay
The you inside of me (poem)
I know you're thinking of me
I know I'm on your mind
The pain is penetrating
The hurt will ease with time
Please read with your heart open
And truly you will see
The memories that I have
Of the you inside of me
To my grands and children
Continue in the way you were raised
Don't stop the family gatherings
Don't let time cause delay
And during the time of Christmas
You'll wish I were around
Don't let your hearts be saddened
I went up -I didn't go down
To my Brother friend
You're true and so legit
Remember the fun while wreaking havoc
Climbing all that we could grip
Gigantor and underdog
Were the figures of our youth
But your loyalty and love my brother
Holds a deeper root
And to my sister's children
What I want you to know
I'm such a proud uncle
Who was blessed to watch you grow
Remember me always
We created such beautiful stories
It was only because of God
So be sure to give him glory
To my baby sister
Karate queen at best
I've reunited with mom and sis
In a place where there is rest
I am still your protector
Just at a greater height
Answering God's calling
When he drew me to the light
I have a best best cousin
Who's hurting oh so bad
Dont swallow in that sorrow
Just think about our laughs
Remember childhood memories
And me upon that bike
God gave you one last pic
Keep hold onto it tight
To my aunts, my uncles, and even to my friends
We have eternal life through Jesus Christ
So there really is no end
To the mother of my children
Who knows I have not perished
I'm proud of how you did my passing
Giving others a life to cherish
To all who can't stop crying
We will truly meet again
God made it so at the resurrection
Giving Jesus as our friend
We're all destined to leave
Just at a different time
I'm with the Great I AM
Please let that ease your mind
Pay attention to this poem
Look close and you will see
"This poem was especially created because of the you inside of me." ❤
Growing up, he was the middle child surrounded by his sister Delores Dennis-Clayter (deceased *Michael Clayter), and his sister Crystal Deniece Dennis of whom he is survived. He took great pride in handling the responsibility of being the only male to look after and care for his two sisters and as a result the three of them shared admiration for one another in a loving relationship that was truly inseparable.
After the passing of his parents, he went on to live with his grandmother and then he resided with his favorite uncle George Dennis and his wife Virgina who he would later refer to as his second mom.
He spent his young adulthood as a fiesty, courageous, determined and protective big brother to his sister Crystal and gained the nick named "Lefty" after he became well known for teaching family members how to fight. He was also known as Jr., Dennis, and Mr. D. He was a friend to many and always kept a smile on his face while sharing a lifelong friendship with Whitey, his best friend. The two formed a close, warm hearted, and binding relationship that can only be categorized as brothers. The unconditional love they had for one another kept them linked together for more than 50 years.
He remained employed in the transportation industry throughout his entire career. As an adult, he ultimately developed into becoming an adventurous family man who enjoyed spending time with his niece (Janay), Nephew (Eddie), children and grandchildren. He would always gather the family for outings of jet skiing, whitewater rafting, going to the beach, parasailing, paintballing, skiing, amusement parks and more.
His hobbies included photography, painting, buying antiques, riding his motorcycle, attending car shows, and listening to music with one of his favorite songs being "Call me the traveling man" (Masquerades). He was humorous and would keep listeners deeply engaged and amused whenever he would share one of his entertaining stories.
Johnnie was also blessed to establish a unique long loving relationship with Mattie, the mother of his children, who exemplified the love of Christ throughout his illness and remained stedfast by his side until the day of his departure.
He is the proud brother, uncle, father, and grandfather to:
Delores Dennis Clayter (sister), Crystal Deniece Dennis (sister), Eddie Maurice Brown Jr. (nephew), Christen Janay Brown (niece), Michael Jerome Clayter (nephew), Durrell Jarric Clayter (nephew), Mahoghany Marie Gamble (daughter), Mandez Hassan Gamble (son), Malia Nicole Gamble (granddaughter), Royce Alejandro Gamble (grandson). He also has a host of aunts, cousins, uncles, and God children who love him dearly.
God blessed Johnnie Dennis Jr. with the opportunity to live a joyous fulfilled life and in return he left countless memories in the hearts and minds of everyone he encountered. He is now in the arms of his Heavenly Father making confession of his belief before his departure that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. Hallelujah!
Tributes:
If I could write an open letter to "Brother"(that's what I called him). I would tell Brother how thankful I am to him and for him! We were separated as children but he always kept a bonding relationship with Delores and I. I want to let him know how much I appreciated the time and effort he put into spending time with us. From the picnics, to the amusement parks, taking us to the movies, Penn's Landing, and so many others. I could go on all day! I wish people could imagine a teenage boy wanting to take the time out to have special moments for his sisters. Most boys that age don't even want to be bothered (smile). My brother was "amazing" in a paternal way. I am now a mother of two wonderful children and I am fortunate enough to have had the opportunity to watch Brother reproduce that same adoring relationship with his neice and nephew as he did with me and my sister. They loved him dearly! He took them on so many adventures just the same as he did with me and Delores. The children would return home and excitedly talk about motorcycle rides, firecrackers, picnics, amusement parks and so much more! Y'all get the picture right? Anyway, what he created for all of us were ever lasting memories. He gave us himself, his love, and his time. We will always love and admire Brother. He was and is forever precious in our hearts ❤️ ~your Sister Crystal
To my brother, my oldest, and dearest friend. My love for you will never end. The Lord sent his angels to give you your wings and you will be greatly missed. When he gives me mine I'll see you again. So one love brother, as you used to say; and I will continue to carry that saying until my last day~Whitey aka Gigantor and underdog forever. Your brother for life and eternally.
Dad aka pops aka my #1 fan!
Thank you for helping me become who I am today. Thank you for being a role model. Thank you for spoiling me and Mahoghany and for keeping us rich and wealthy with the abundance of your love! Thank you for being an incredible Grandpa! Thank you for being extremely supportive in any and everything I've ever done! Words can't even describe how pivotal you were to me and to many others. It was a blessing to hear my friends praise you because you demonstrated the actions of a loving father. Thank you Johnnie Dennis! You will forever be missed! Rest easy pop! With love! ~Your son Mandez- aka- Trendz
Uncle Dee,
I don't have many words today to describe how I feel, but I can say that God is healing our family and we are learning to remember the best of times despite not being able to feel and touch you. We know that you are watching over us. You are truly the world's greatest uncle, even on your resting day. Because of you I'll never forget that mediocracy has no place in our family. Thank you for teaching us all how to live life to the fullest. Thank you for all the amazing adventures. And thank you for the unconditional love....Because goodbyes are permanent instead I'll say, "see you later" ❤ Heaven has truly gained the most beautiful angel. You will be missed deeply.
Forever in my heart. Love always, your niece Janay
The you inside of me (poem)
I know you're thinking of me
I know I'm on your mind
The pain is penetrating
The hurt will ease with time
Please read with your heart open
And truly you will see
The memories that I have
Of the you inside of me
To my grands and children
Continue in the way you were raised
Don't stop the family gatherings
Don't let time cause delay
And during the time of Christmas
You'll wish I were around
Don't let your hearts be saddened
I went up -I didn't go down
To my Brother friend
You're true and so legit
Remember the fun while wreaking havoc
Climbing all that we could grip
Gigantor and underdog
Were the figures of our youth
But your loyalty and love my brother
Holds a deeper root
And to my sister's children
What I want you to know
I'm such a proud uncle
Who was blessed to watch you grow
Remember me always
We created such beautiful stories
It was only because of God
So be sure to give him glory
To my baby sister
Karate queen at best
I've reunited with mom and sis
In a place where there is rest
I am still your protector
Just at a greater height
Answering God's calling
When he drew me to the light
I have a best best cousin
Who's hurting oh so bad
Dont swallow in that sorrow
Just think about our laughs
Remember childhood memories
And me upon that bike
God gave you one last pic
Keep hold onto it tight
To my aunts, my uncles, and even to my friends
We have eternal life through Jesus Christ
So there really is no end
To the mother of my children
Who knows I have not perished
I'm proud of how you did my passing
Giving others a life to cherish
To all who can't stop crying
We will truly meet again
God made it so at the resurrection
Giving Jesus as our friend
We're all destined to leave
Just at a different time
I'm with the Great I AM
Please let that ease your mind
Pay attention to this poem
Look close and you will see
"This poem was especially created because of the you inside of me." ❤