Donald Joseph Johnson, 85, of Owensboro passed away January 15, 2026. He was born on July 20, 1940, to the late Richard Earl Johnson and Mary Lillian (Yates) Johnson.
Donald was a devoted member of Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church and Windridge Country Club. He dedicated many years of his working life to Green River Steel until its closure, after which he retired and pursued his lifelong love of automobiles. From the age of 45 to 65, Don co-owned and operated Auto Diagnostic and Repair with a partner, a venture that reflected both his skill and work ethic. In 1997, he discovered a passion for long-distance running, quickly becoming a familiar face at local races where he consistently won his age division—and often the one below it. An avid motorcyclist from his teenage years well into his 80s, DJ logged countless miles on his bike, traveling to destinations such as Florida, Las Vegas, and even Canada, leaving his children convinced few could rival his time on the road. He also enjoyed trips to the movie theater, playing pool and participating in multiple pool leagues, golfing, and traveling. Above all, Donnie Joe deeply valued his relationships with his siblings and was always willing to help them in any way they needed, a testament to his loyalty and generous spirit.
Along with his parents, Donald is preceded in death by his first wife and mother of his children, Margie Ann (Cecil) Johnson; second wife, Martha Greer Johnson; brothers, George Earl Johnson, Richard Leon Johnson, and Phillip David Johnson; and one sister, Brenda Gail Johnson.
Those left to cherish his memory include his children, Richard Johnson, Donna (Jeremy) Payne and Jason (Susan) Johnson; grandsons, Jacob, Samuel, Isaac, and Jonah; two step-grandchildren; multiple step-great-grandchildren; siblings, Jerry Johnson, Carol Sue Crowe, and Mary Ann Fouse; a close cousin who was like his brother, John Johnson; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church, with Fr. Joe Schoettle officiating. Visitation will take place on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. until 10:30 a.m. at Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory. Burial to follow the service at Resurrection Cemetery.
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations made payable to Senior Community Center of Owensboro-Daviess County at 1650 W 2nd St, Owensboro, KY 42301.
Haley McGinnis Funeral Home & Crematory is honored and privileged to be entrusted with the care of Donald Joseph Johnson. Please leave condolence messages for the family of Mr. Johnson and sign their virtual guestbook at www.haleymcginnis.com.