Alan G. Johnson

October 12, 1945 ~ January 19, 2026

Alan G. Johnson, 80, entered the presence of his Lord and Savior in the early morning hours of January 19, 2026, following an illness, with his loving wife faithfully at his side.

Alan was born on October 12, 1945, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Robert and Lettie (Toothaker) Johnson.

He was a graduate of Riley High School, Class of 1964, where he excelled in track and cross country. At the age of 19, Alan was inducted into the U.S. Army during the Vietnam era. He was stationed in West Germany, serving in the Artillery Battalion. After completing his military service, he returned to South Bend and worked at AM General building Army vehicles.

Using the GI Bill, Alan attended Indiana University, graduating with the Class of 1975. He majored in Psychology and Sociology, with additional studies in History and Physical Education, and later earned a master’s degree in Education. Alan taught high school for three years, during which time he also coached football, basketball, and golf. He later became a mail carrier and retired from the South Bend Post Office after 27 years of dedicated service.

Alan was married to his best friend, Debbie. The two met while swimming at the Mishawaka YMCA and went on to share 46 beautiful years together. They enjoyed planting flowers in their yard, swimming, visiting estate sales, watching IU basketball, bowling, and spending cherished time with their grandchildren. Alan especially looked forward to vacations in Florida and South Haven, Michigan.

Alan was a devoted and faithful husband, father, and grandfather. A God-fearing man, he consistently put others before himself and was quick to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, especially his friends, family, and neighbors. He was a long-time member of Community Baptist Church.

Alan is survived by his loving wife, Debbie (Brennan) Johnson of South Bend; his three children, Shane (Katie) Johnson of Byron Center, Michigan, Brian (Andrea) Johnson of South Bend, and Jenna Bishop (Matthew) of Annapolis, Maryland; and his six cherished grandchildren, Claire, Graham, Anna, Isla, Lucy, and Casper. He is also survived by his brother, Bill (Peggy) Johnson of South Bend, and his brother-in-law, Scott (Robin) Brennan, also of South Bend.

Memorial contributions can be made to Community Baptist Church: 5715 Miami Rd, South Bend, IN 46614

Visitation will be Tuesday, Jan. 27, from 3-7 PM at Palmer Funeral Home - River Park.

Funeral services to follow Wednesday, Jan 28 at 11 AM at Community Baptist Church in South Bend with additional visitation one hour before service.

For those unable to attend in person, funeral services will be streamed at www.communitybaptist.com/sermons

 Online condolences may be left for the family at www.palmerfuneralhomes.com

01/23/2026 djb

https://www.palmerfuneralhomes.com/obituary/Alan-Johnson