Glenn Dean Johnson

Glenn Dean Johnson, 87, of Charlotte, passed away peacefully at home on October 27, 2026. He was born in Louisville, Kentucky, as the eldest of three boys to Helen Dean and John Thomas Johnson, Jr. Glenn finished top of his class at Atherton High School, before heading to Vanderbilt University where he graduated Cum Laude, and was a proud member of both Sigma Chi and Omicron Delta Kappa. Following college, Glenn served in the US Army specializing in Military Intelligence. He then started a career that led him from Corning Glass to Bush Stationers before finding his passion as a Church Business Administrator.

From high school throughout his career and retirement, leadership and service were central to Glenn’s identity. He enjoyed serving others across roles in multiple church, business, and social groups, fighting for inclusion and equality at all stops. Following his time at seminary, he became a self-described evangelical agnostic, who loved engaging in thoughtful discussions around all religions. With a competitive desire to learn more than the status quo, Glenn prided himself on being a questioner, iconoclast, and seeker of knowledge as he navigated his life’s journey.

Glenn’s competitive spirit also presented itself at family game nights, showing no mercy to fellow Oh Hell and Scrabble competitors. He seamlessly blended his trademark quick wit and sarcasm with an empathetic ear in any conversation. As an avid lover of literature and classical music, if Glenn did not have his focus on a book, he could be heard whistling his favorite operatic tunes. Glenn’s love of music found a welcomed home for years as part of the Community Singers, embracing the joyful noises the group created. His soft eyes and warm smile will live on in the minds and hearts of those closest to him.

Glenn is survived by his loving wife, Donna Johnson, sons Chris (Shannon) and Dean (Emilie), his four grandchildren (Cole, Davis, Madeleine, Carlin), and many more loving family and friends. In addition to his parents, Glenn was preceded in death by his brothers Tom and Bert.

The family will receive friends from 1pm to 2pm on Sunday, November 8, 2026 at Hankins and Whittington Funeral Service, 1111 East Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28203. A memorial service

will follow in the funeral home chapel at 2pm with Rev. Debbie Kidd officiating.

The family would like to sincerely express their appreciation for all the loving care provided by the Novant Hospice and Palliative Care team. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Novant Health Foundation, Hospice and Palliative Care Fund in memory of Glenn Johnson.

Online condolences may be made at www.HankinsandWhittington.com.