Shannon Dwight Johnson, Jr.

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shannon Dwight Johnson, Jr., on September 30, 2024, at the age of 43 in Dothan, Alabama. Born in Munster, Indiana on January 14, 1981, Shannon was a beloved soul who touched the lives of many with his kindness, compassion, and unwavering love for others. Shannon’s life was a journey marked by his battle with mental health, a struggle that never diminished his capacity to care deeply for those around him.

A passionate sports enthusiast, Shannon had an extraordinary gift for remembering the moments that mattered most to him. His love for his family was boundless, and he took great pride in his cherished relationships, especially with his mother, father, sister LaLani, brother Duane, and Uncle Jay. He loved to share stories of the time spent with his family, always finding joy in recounting those special memories.

Shannon’s journey was not without its challenges. Despite a childhood filled with adversity and years of searching for answers, it wasn’t until the last decade of his life that he was diagnosed with Asperger’s. This diagnosis brought some clarity, but Shannon often felt misunderstood, struggling to “fit in” and be seen for the incredible person he truly was.

Throughout his life, Shannon carried the weight of rejection and hurt, a silent burden that is too often the reality for those facing mental illness. His story is a reflection of a larger societal issue—our lack of resources and understanding to properly address mental health challenges. If sharing Shannon’s story helps even one family have the conversation they need, his death will not have been in vain.

In his final act of love, Shannon selflessly gave the gift of life through organ and tissue donation. Though his absence will be deeply felt by all who knew and loved him, his legacy of generosity and compassion will live on in the lives he touched.

Shannon will be missed beyond measure. May his soul find the peace and understanding that eluded him in life.

Surviving relatives include his Mother, Teresa (Billy) Williams, his Sister, LaLani (Mark) Patterson, his Brother, Duane Lee Hayes II, his Uncle, John Jay (Bari) Provozano, his Aunts, Myra Mitchell, Dawn (Lori Ann) Hayes, his Nieces, Alexandra (Cody) Cain, Jade Prescaro, his Nephews, Joseph (Peyton) Wozniak, Nelson Aiden Gomez, Perrin Gomez, David Lee Hayes, his Special Friend, Angel Rodriguez, and numerous Cousins, Friends, and those whose lives he touched.

Preceded in death by his Father, Shannon D. Johnson, Sr., his Grandfathers, Donald Johnson, Milton A. Sheets II, his Grandmothers, Wanda Provozano, Theresa V. Taylor, his Uncles, Horace Johnson, James Sheets, Milton A. Sheets III, and his Special Friend, Edwin Sanchez.

Donations in Memory of Shannon can be made to: Legacy of Hope C/O Donate Life Alabama, 516 20th Street South Birmingham, AL 35233 or online at: https://legacyofhope.org/donor-families/memorials-and-tributes/

Robert and Toni Byrd · Sunset Memorial Park

1700 Barrington Rd, Midland City AL · (334) 983-6604