Johnny E. Sewell

Johnny E. Sewell was born on April 12, 1966 in Fort Wayne, Indiana. He was the son of Dorothy Sewell and Clancy Starks, Sr. Johnny departed this life on Friday, September 29, 2023.

Johnny accepted Christ at an early age and attended Emmaus Lutheran Church. When he was in middle school, he was welcomed into the home of the late Donald and Deveta Housholder, who loved him as their own.

In 1994, he met the love of his life, Shirley Jones, whom he married in September of 1996. Together they had two beautiful daughters, Alexis and Aleah, whom he adored tremendously.

Johnny graduated from North Side High School in 1985 where he was an outstanding student and athlete.  He was an awesome two-way player. On offense, he was a fullback; on defense, he was a defensive end. He went to Semi-State his senior year.  He became North Side’s first state wrestling champion during his senior year. Johnny received a full ride football scholarship to Miami of Ohio. He was inducted into North Side’s first Hall of Fame class in 2015.

Johnny worked at Dana Corporation in various leadership positions for over 30 years until he retired in 2017.

Johnny had a smile that could light up the town. He had a beautiful heart and a kind, generous spirit. Johnny was the best friend to many people. To know Johnny was to love Johnny. He didn’t meet any strangers. He loved to travel, watch sports, and listen to music, but nothing made him happier than spending time with family and friends.

Johnny leaves to cherish his loving wife, Shirley; daughters, Alexis and Aleah Sewell; eight brothers, Raymond Sewell; Jimmy Sewell; Maurice Sewell, Constantine Austin, Bart ( Emily) Housholder, Doug (Sharon) Housholder; Sam (Tammy) Housholder; and Brad (Kim) Owens; nine sisters, Annette (Darrell) Williams, Andella Starks, Phyllis (Ernest) Washington, Magdalene Ward, Essie Hardin, Juanita (Ricky) Harris; Jeanette Berry, Dora (Paul) Miller, and Jenny (Jim) Lucas, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.

Johnny was preceded in death by five brothers, Larry Sewell, Lee Sewell, Roy Starks, Clancy Starks, Sr., and Clay Housholder; three sisters, Shirley Carswell, Vinnie Watkins and Rose Starks.

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