David Johnson

David Brian Johnson, 61 years young, passed away Wednesday evening, July 17th, 2013. He fought the most difficult struggle of his life with incredible bravery and persistence. In the darkest of hours, he even managed to keep the humor that he was known and well-loved for. David was born July 2nd, 1952, in Houston, Texas, but spent the majority of his beautiful life in Natchitoches, Louisiana. He served in the Navy, then joined his father, O.S. Johnson, in what would become a very successful family dirt contracting business. Despite working many long hours, he always found the time to relax and play on Cane River. He surrounded himself with his family and many friends, all the while cracking jokes and making everyone around him laugh and smile. David also found great joy in serving as King and Captain of the Krewe of Dionysos, as well as King of the Krewe of Centaur. David is preceded in death by his mother, Murrell Perkins Johnson, father, Odis Sterling Johnson, brothers Mark Steven Johnson and Scott Allen Johnson. He leaves behind his loving wife of 22 years, Barbara Tibbitt Johnson, his daughter Dacia Johnson Gravlin and husband, Michael Gravlin (of Seaside, Florida) and their four little girls who were the light of his life, Lily, Emma, Kate and Coco. He is also survived by his daughter Jennifer Elizabeth Johnson (of St. Thomas, VI) and son David Landon Johnson (of Vicksburg, Mississippi), all of whom were by his side during his brave battle. He leaves behind his brothers, James Michael Johnson and family (of Salt Lake City, Utah) and Charles Patrick Johnson and family (of Natchitoches, Louisiana). Visitation will be held at Blanchard St. Denis funeral home on Saturday, July 20th, from 5-7 in the evening. A short memorial service honoring his wonderful life will immediately follow visitation. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that any donations be made to the American Heart Association or to the charity of choice.