John "Johnny" Mitchell Dennis

John “Johnny” Mitchell Dennis Sr., age 91, passed away peacefully on September 24, 2025, in his hometown of Louisville, Kentucky. Born on June 30, 1934, to Charles “Charlie” and Ruby Dennis, Johnny lived a full and vibrant life that touched the hearts of everyone who knew him.

A lifelong brick mason by trade, Johnny was a man of many talents and passions. When his hands weren’t shaping stone and brick, they were busy bringing beauty into the world in other ways. He had a deep love for stone carving, painting, and photography. Known for capturing serene country scenes with his camera, Johnny would often return home and recreate those same moments with pencil and brush, bringing the outdoors to life with an artist’s eye and a craftsman’s touch.

Music filled his life—especially country and bluegrass—and he found joy in the simple pleasure of listening to his favorite songs. A true Kentuckian at heart, Johnny also loved western movies and television shows, and had a fondness for cooking shows, often trying his hand at the dishes featured. His famous jelly-filled cakes were legendary among his children and grandchildren, lovingly baked for birthdays and family celebrations. They were more than desserts; they were traditions.

Johnny’s greatest joy came from time spent with his family and friends. He was a loving father, grandfather, and friend—always present, always giving. One of his most cherished routines was spending Sundays with his granddaughter, Brandy, watching football and cheering on Lamar Jackson and the UofL Cardinals. Those Sundays, filled with laughter, snacks, and shared excitement, will remain treasured memories for his loved ones.

An avid animal lover, Johnny had a special place in his heart for his dogs, who were his loyal companions throughout the years. He also had a passion for horse races, especially the Kentucky Derby. He enjoyed placing bets and passing on that knowledge to his grandchildren, teaching them the fun (and skill) of picking a winner.

He will be deeply missed, but the memories he created—his stories, his talents, his cakes, his music, and his unconditional love—will live on in all who knew him.

Johnny is preceded in death by his loving wife of 44 years, Peggy Dennis; 2 children, Connie Dowdle and Mitch Dennis Jr.; parents, Charles Owen Dennis and Ruby Hendrix Dennis; and 10 siblings.

Left to cherish his memory, Johnny is survived by his 2 children, Tamara Luna and Debbie Hutt; 3 grandchildren, Brandy Snider, Christine Nevitt, and Cody Fleitz; 3 great-grandchildren, Alexia Bergin, Dasan Brown, and Alora Brown; niece, Rebecca Dennis; nephew, Phillip Baxter; many nieces/nephews; and a host of extended family and close friends.

A funeral service for Mr. Johnny Dennis will be held at 2 PM on Friday, October 3, 2025, at Louisville Memorial Gardens West Funeral Home, 4400 Dixie Highway, Louisville, Kentucky. Visitation will be held on Thursday, October 2, 2025, from 1 PM to 7 PM, and prior to the service from 10 AM to 2 PM, at the funeral home. Burial at Louisville Memorial Gardens West will follow the funeral service.