Lois Denhard is a name many sports fans recognize. She is the mother of the famous TNT host Ernie Johnson Jr. She was also the wife of the late Ernie Johnson Sr. Many people see her as the heart of a very special family. But who is she really?
This article looks deep into the life of Lois Denhard. We will see how she grew up. We will learn about her long marriage. We will also see how she helped her children grow. Her life shows us how love and strength can build a great family.
The Early Life of Lois Denhard
Lois Denhard was born in the state of Illinois around 1928. Her father was Carl Lawrence Denhard. Her mother was Edna Kuny Denhard. Growing up in the 1930s was not easy for many. It was a time when families had to be very strong. Lois learned these values early on.
She later moved to Vermont. This move changed her life forever. In Vermont, she went to high school and became a cheerleader. She was full of energy and spirit. This spirit is something she kept her whole life.
A Chance Meeting that Changed Everything
In 1946, a young man named Ernie Johnson Sr. came home from World War II. He had served in the Marine Corps. He went to a high school basketball game in Brattleboro, Vermont. That is where he first saw Lois Denhard. She was cheering on the sidelines.
Ernie was sitting in the balcony with a date. But he could not stop looking at Lois. He knew he wanted to meet her. They started talking soon after. Lois was a senior in high school at the time.
When they first met, Lois asked Ernie what he did for work. He told her he played baseball. She did not think that was a real job! She asked him again what he did for a living. Even after they were together, she was surprised by his small baseball checks. They were married on November 15, 1947.
Building a Life in Baseball
Being a baseball wife is not easy. Ernie Johnson Sr. was a pitcher. He played for the Boston Braves and the Milwaukee Braves. This meant the family had to move a lot. Lois Denhard was the one who made every new house feel like a home.
In the early years, they lived in many different places. They lived in Milwaukee for a long time. Ernie Jr. was born there. Lois had to handle the house while Ernie Sr. was away playing games. She was the glue that held everything together.
In 1966, the Braves moved to Atlanta. Lois and the family moved too. This move was a big change. But Lois handled it with grace. She supported her husband as he moved from playing on the field to talking on the radio.
The Matriarch of a Famous Family
Lois Denhard and Ernie Sr. had three children. Their names are Dawn, Chris, and Ernie Jr. Lois was a very supportive mother. She went to all their games and events.
Ernie Jr. tells a story about his only home run in baseball. He was playing in a game and hit the ball very far. His mom, Lois, was the only one from the family there to see it. She was always his biggest fan. She cheered for him when no one else was watching.
She also taught her children how to be kind. She showed them that being a good person is more important than being famous. This is a lesson Ernie Jr. still talks about today. He calls his mom a “fighter” and says she has “so much energy.”
Powerful Truths About Her Strength lois denhard
One truth about Lois Denhard is her inner strength. Her son calls her “Betty White on steroids.” This means she is funny, sweet, but also very tough. She does not give up easily.
Even as she got older, she stayed very active. She loves to watch her son on TV. She watches “Inside the NBA” and stays up late to see the whole show. She is over 90 years old now, but she still has a sharp mind.
She also faced hard times. Losing her husband in 2011 was very sad. They were married for 63 years. That is a very long time to be with one person. But Lois stayed strong for her children and grandchildren.
Her Influence on Ernie Johnson Jr.
Ernie Johnson Jr. is loved by many sports fans. He is known for being humble and kind. He got these traits from Lois Denhard. She taught him that life is not just about you. It is about helping others.
Lois showed him how to handle fame. Even though his dad was a star, she kept the family grounded. They lived a normal life. They ate dinner together when they could. They cared about their neighbors.
This foundation helped Ernie Jr. when he faced his own challenges. He has talked about his health and his family on TV. The strength he shows comes from the lessons Lois taught him at home.
Lessons We Can Learn from Lois Denhard
There are many things we can learn from Lois. First, support your loved ones. She supported her husband’s dream of playing baseball. She supported her children’s dreams too.
Second, be adaptable. Moving from city to city is hard. But Lois made it work. She found new friends and built a community everywhere she went. She showed that home is where your family is.
Third, stay positive. Lois is known for her sense of humor. She jokes that if she has one more drink, she will be “too adorable.” This lighthearted way of looking at life helps people get through tough days.
A Legacy of Love and Loyalty
The legacy of Lois Denhard is her family. Her children and grandchildren are all doing great things. They all talk about her with a lot of love. She is the heart of the Johnson family.
She shows us that you don’t have to be the one on the screen to be a hero. The person behind the scenes is often the most important one. Lois was the support system for two of the biggest names in sports broadcasting.
Her life is a story of loyalty. She stayed by her husband’s side for over six decades. She has been there for her children every step of the way. This kind of loyalty is very rare today.
Frequently Asked Questions About Lois Denhard
Who is Lois Denhard?
Lois Denhard is the wife of the late Ernie Johnson Sr. and the mother of Ernie Johnson Jr. She is known as a strong and supportive woman who helped her family succeed in the world of sports.
Is Lois Denhard still alive?
Yes, Lois Denhard is still alive. She is in her 90s and lives near Atlanta, Georgia. She remains very active and loves to watch her son on TNT.
How did Lois Denhard meet her husband?
She met Ernie Johnson Sr. at a high school basketball game in 1946. She was a cheerleader and he was a returning soldier. They married a year later.
What is Lois Denhard’s personality like?
She is described as very energetic and funny. Her son calls her a “pistol.” She is also very tough and has a “fighter” spirit.
Where did Lois Denhard grow up?
She was born in Illinois and later moved to Vermont. She also lived in Milwaukee before moving to the Atlanta area.
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Final Thoughts on a Remarkable Life
Lois Denhard is more than just a famous person’s mom. She is a woman of great character. She lived through many changes in history. She saw the world change, but her values stayed the same.
Her life reminds us that family comes first. It reminds us to be kind and to keep a sense of humor. Lois Denhard is a true example of a powerful woman who lead with love.
By knowing her story, we understand why the Johnson family is so special. They had a great teacher in Lois. Her strength and spirit will continue to inspire them for many years.
FAQs
What is the connection between Lois Denhard and the Atlanta Braves?
Lois’s husband, Ernie Johnson Sr., pitched for the Braves and was their broadcaster for 35 years. Lois was a huge part of the Braves family during that time.
How many children does Lois Denhard have?
Lois has three children: Dawn, Chris, and Ernie Jr. She also has many grandchildren who she loves dearly.
What did Lois Denhard do for a living?
Lois was primarily a homemaker. She focused on raising her children and supporting her husband’s career. Her son credits her for filling all the gaps when his father was away for baseball.
Why is she called “Betty White on steroids”?
Her son, Ernie Jr., used this phrase in his book “Unscripted.” It refers to her high energy, great sense of humor, and her very strong will even at an older age.
Disclaimer:
The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we strive for accuracy, all details are provided “as is” and do not constitute professional advice or official representation of the Johnson family.
