Lois Denhard may not be a name that often pops up in headlines, but her legacy is far-reaching, thanks to the prominent role she played in the life of her son, Ernie Johnson Jr., one of the most respected sports broadcasters in America. While she was largely a private figure, her impact on both her family and the wider sports world cannot be overstated.
In this article, we explore the life of Lois Denhard, her marriage to Ernie Johnson Sr., her influence on her children, and the rich family legacy they have built over the decades. We also take a closer look at Ernie Johnson Jr., her son, who went on to become a beloved host on TNT’s Inside the NBA, and the family dynamics that shaped him.
Early Life of Lois Denhard
Lois Margery Denhard was born on June 10, 1928, in Chicago, Illinois. Her childhood, marked by the financial difficulties of the Great Depression, instilled in her a work ethic and resilience that would stay with her throughout her life. Raised by Carl and Edna Denhard, Lois learned the value of community, family, and faith — qualities that would be passed down to her children.
As a teenager, Lois was a cheerleader in high school, where she caught the eye of Ernie Johnson Sr. during a basketball game in the late 1940s. While their meeting may have been brief, it set the stage for a lasting love story that would define the course of both their lives.
Lois Denhard and Ernie Johnson Sr.: A Partnership Built on Love
In 1947, Lois and Ernie Johnson Sr. were married. Ernie Sr. had served in World War II and, after returning, began a baseball career that saw him play for the Boston Braves (which later became the Milwaukee Braves) and the St. Louis Cardinals. He was part of the Braves team that won the 1957 World Series, but his career didn’t stop there. Ernie also transitioned into a successful career in sports broadcasting, eventually becoming a fixture of Atlanta Braves broadcasts.
Throughout these career changes, Lois remained a constant support for Ernie, helping to manage their growing family and balancing the demands of Ernie’s athletic career. While she never sought the spotlight, Lois became an integral part of the family’s success. Ernie’s broadcasting career was often complemented by Lois’s behind-the-scenes contributions — supporting him emotionally, managing family life, and serving as the glue that held everything together.
The Johnson Family: A Legacy of Faith, Service, and Family
Lois and Ernie Johnson Sr. had three children: Ernie Johnson Jr., Dawn Johnson, and Chris Johnson. While Ernie Jr. would go on to become a household name in sports broadcasting, his siblings led private lives, though they remained supportive pillars of the family.
For Ernie Johnson Jr., Lois was not only a mother but a role model in humility and grace. She taught him the importance of family and faith, values that would serve as the foundation for his career. As Ernie Jr. became a prominent figure on TNT’s Inside the NBA, Lois’s influence was apparent in his approach to life and his work — marked by a profound sense of integrity, authenticity, and compassion for others.
Ernie Johnson Jr.: Rising to Fame
Ernie Johnson Jr. was born on August 7, 1956, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. As the son of a professional baseball player and a devoted homemaker, he grew up in an environment where sports and family were central themes. After his family moved to Atlanta, where his father had transitioned into broadcasting, Ernie Jr. would come of age watching his father navigate both the joys and challenges of being in the public eye.
Ernie Jr. went on to graduate from the University of Georgia with a degree in journalism, and he soon began his own career in broadcasting. His path to becoming the host of TNT’s Inside the NBA was paved by his natural charisma, work ethic, and a deep understanding of sports. As a sports anchor, Ernie Jr. gained widespread recognition for his role in the popular basketball talk show, alongside Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Shaquille O’Neal.
Through all his successes, Lois remained a steadfast supporter. As her son rose to fame, Lois was often by his side, offering words of encouragement and love. For Ernie Jr., his mother’s unwavering belief in him was one of the greatest gifts he received in life.
The Johnson Family’s Impact on the Sports World
The Johnson family’s influence on the world of sports broadcasting is undeniable. From Ernie Johnson Sr.’s role as a baseball broadcaster to Ernie Johnson Jr.’s rise to prominence as one of the most recognized faces in sports media, the Johnson name has become synonymous with professionalism, dedication, and respect.
But it’s not just about the family’s contributions to sports. The Johnson family has always placed a strong emphasis on values like faith, humility, and community. Lois, as the heart of the family, was the driving force behind these principles. Her influence on her children’s careers was felt not just in their professional lives but in their personal lives as well, teaching them the importance of kindness, hard work, and dedication to others.
Lois Denhard’s Quiet Legacy
Lois Denhard may have lived her life largely out of the public eye, but her legacy is far-reaching. Through her quiet strength and devotion to her family, she shaped the careers of her children and instilled in them a deep sense of integrity and service. While she did not seek fame or recognition, her influence continues to be felt — not only through the life and career of her son Ernie Johnson Jr. but also in the values she passed down to her family.
Lois’s legacy also extends beyond her immediate family. She was an active member of the community, supporting her husband’s career and being a steadfast presence in her children’s lives. Lois taught those around her that the true measure of success is not in public accolades but in the love, support, and care one provides to those closest to them.
The Family Today: A Continuing Legacy
Today, Ernie Johnson Jr. continues to be one of the most respected figures in sports broadcasting, largely because of the principles instilled in him by his mother. Lois’s legacy lives on not just through her son but also through the lasting influence she had on the family as a whole.
In 2023, Lois passed away at the age of 94. Her death marked the end of an era, but her influence remains as strong as ever. Ernie Johnson Jr. has often spoken publicly about how his mother was a constant source of strength in his life, and her passing was a deeply emotional moment for him. Still, Lois’s legacy lives on in the values she instilled in her children and the way they continue to carry her influence into their own lives.
Where Did the Johnsons Live?
The Johnson family moved several times over the years as Ernie Sr. transitioned from playing baseball to broadcasting. They eventually settled in Atlanta, Georgia, where they spent much of their lives. It was in Atlanta that Ernie Jr. grew up and later started his career, becoming a fixture of TNT’s sports programming.
Conclusion
Lois Denhard’s life was one marked by quiet strength, dedication to family, and an unwavering belief in her children’s potential. Though she lived largely outside the public eye, her influence on the Johnson family — particularly on Ernie Johnson Jr. — is profound and enduring. Through her role as a mother, wife, and matriarch, Lois created a legacy that continues to inspire not just her children but also the millions of fans who admire the work of Ernie Johnson Jr. and his colleagues.
Her life reminds us that true success isn’t measured by fame or accolades but by the love, integrity, and support we offer those around us.
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