Denise Johnson

Denise V. Beard Johnson, age 57 of Erie, departed this earthly life Sunday February 19, 2017 at UPMC Hamot.

She was born in Erie on June 2, 1959, a daughter of Verna May Beard and the late Dennis Beard, II.

A resident of Erie her whole life, Ms. Beard Johnson graduated from Strong Vincent High School and attended I.U.P. University and Mercyhurst University, where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice. Denise worked at Cross Roads and she also toured at One In Christ International Church. She ministered to anyone in need, regardless of their age.

As a member of Second Baptist Church, she served on the Pastor's Aide Committee and the Willing Worker’s Committee.

Along with her father, Denise was preceded in death by a Sister, Deborah Beard; a Brother, Dennis Beard lll; Grandfathers, Dennis Beard Sr. and Gaston Crosby; Grandmothers, Viola Beard and Lucille Crosby; Four Aunts, Chanie Larkins, Emma Williamson, Mary Howard and Janie Barnett; Five Uncles, Charles Beard, Leslie (L.C.) Crosby, Earnest Lee Crosby, John Crosby, and Paul Crosby.

In addition to her Mother, she leaves to cherish her memory, a Son, Jamie Johnson; a Daughter, Jocelyn Johnson of Erie, PA; A Brother, Bishop Curtis Henderson of Alabama; Three Aunts, Lillie (John) Hopkins, Bertha Beard of Erie, PA and Jessie Beard of Ohio; Three Uncles, Sonny Crosby, Ferris Beard and Stanley Beard all of Erie, PA; Five Grandchildren, Angel Johnson, Jancere Johnson, Jayana Johnson, Jazya Johnson and Jylaija Johnson all of Erie, PA; A nephew, Javon Evan- Beard of Northeast, PA; Two God-Brothers, Kenyatta Howard and Samad Robinson both of Erie, PA; A God-sister, Yolanda Hopkins of Erie, PA and a host of cousins and close friends.

Friends may call at Second Baptist Church, 757 East 26th St., Erie, on Friday, February 24th from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at 12:00 p.m. Burial will follow at Lakeside Cemetery. Arrangements are handled by Burton Funeral Home and Crematory, Inc. 602 W. 10th Street Erie.