Craig Dean Johnson

May 9, 1966 - February 1, 2022

"Dean," "Dougie," "Past Grand Exalted Ruler," "Companion," "Frater," "Noble," "Brother," "Friend," "Lover..." Regardless of what you called him, Craig Dean Johnson was a one-of-a-kind black man. He was a beloved man and a life-long believer in Jesus Christ, who died unexpectedly on February 1, 2022, at the young age of 55, from Covid-19 at the VA Hospital in Aurora, Colorado. Craig is survived by his spouse, Mashia Pryor; his son Preston Johnson; his grandchildren, Preston Johnson Jr. and Taleya Johnson; his siblings, Victor Johnson, Sheryl Johnson, Burkett, Darrell Johnson, Mary Johnson, Martha Johnson, and Sonja Washington. Craig is predeceased by his parents, Russell Hill and Elizabeth Johnson, and his brother, Patrick Johnson. In Moultrie, Georgia, Craig was born on May 9, 1966, to Russel Hill and Elizabeth Johnson. He graduated from Colquitt County High School in 1983. Craig joined the United States Army on October 23, 1983. During his seven years and seven months of service to his country, he received the following: Army Service Ribbon, National Defense Medal, Overseas Service Ribbon, Army Good Conduct Medal, NCO Professional Development Ribbon, Army Achievement Medal, Army Occupation Medal, and an Expert Badge (M-16 Rifle & 9 MM Pistol). He earned the rank of Sergeant. Craig was an active member in many prestigious organizations - The Retired Enlisted Association (Aurora, Colorado), Elks - Pikes Peak Region Lodge #473 (Colorado Springs, Colorado), Prince Hall Masons - Daniel "Chappie" James, Jr. Military Lodge #27 (Aurora, Colorado), Royal Arch Masons - Nathanial Spencer Chapter #4 (Aurora, Colorado), 32nd Degree Masons - Mountain & Plains Consistory #33 (Denver, Colorado), and Prince Hall Shriners - Ancient Egyptian Arabic Order of the Noble Mystic Shrine (2022 Elected High Priest & Prophet & the Appointed Chairman to the National Community Health Initiative) - Syrian Temple #49 (Denver, Colorado). Lastly, Craig was a Grand Lodge Officer of the Most Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Colorado and Its Jurisdiction. He has served in the last two administrations as the liaison to the Improved Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the World. Craig was simply a man "filled with love for humanity." Many will attest that "Craig knew no stranger." He often volunteered and financially donated to countless worthy homelessness and public health causes. More than likely, he availed himself to you and aided you through a rough patch you experienced. Craig will be missed by everyone that knows him. Craig's Viewing is scheduled for 5:00 pm on February 18, 2022, at Harris Funeral Directors, 9722 East 16th Avenue, Colorado 80010. The Celebration of Life is planned for 1:00 pm on February 19, 2022, at The Absolute Word Church, 1201 South Steele Street, Denver, Colorado 80210. Bishop Jerry Demmer will officiate. Following the celebration of life, the repass will happen at TREA, 1599 Dayton Street, Aurora, Colorado 80010. Craig's Burial is scheduled for 9:00 am on February 21, 2022, at the Fort Logan Cemetery, 4400 West Kenyon Avenue, Pavilion A, Denver, Colorado 80205. Flowers, donations, and condolences may be mailed to 1594 South Carson Street, Aurora, Colorado 80012.