Obituary of Desiree Ellen Dantzler Johnson

ROCHESTER, NY – February 23, 2026

Mrs. Desiree Dantzler Johnson was born July 12, 1955 in Queens, NY. She is the daughter of the late Henry Howard Dantzler and the late Nettie Mae (Parker) Dantzler. She married Michael Johnson.

Desiree, a wonderful Educator with a Masters degree in education from Nazareth University. Desiree taught in several New York School Districts including Patchogue Long Island; Manhasset, Fairport and Greece, NY. Desiree spent her longest tenure with Rochester City School District and retired teaching K through Sixth grade. She enjoyed helping her students build basic social and academic skills to succeed in our society.

Desiree made yearly donations to the Urban League of Rochester, Homeless shelters Saint Jude's Hospital for Children and our Local Red Cross. Supporting the arts was one of her favorite passions. The venues are many and include the Memorial Art Gallery in Rochester, the Albright Knox gallery in Buffalo, Geva, Eastman and, the West Herr theaters.

The Summer time was filled with short excursions, some overnight, to finger lake wineries. One of her favorite was Fox Run winery hosting the Annual Garlic Festival. Besides exotic wines, the Festival provided many vendor tents with unique artworks and unusual tasty homegrown garlic. Desiree was fond of the Live Music and friendly conversations on the grapevine covered patio.

In the best way to explain it, Desiree enjoyed life while exploring different parts of our country and the World. Her lifelong desire from a young age was to travel to Paris. She achieved that dream in 2010 visiting the Eiffel tower, a boat tour on the Seine, and visiting The world famous Louvre Art Museum. This trip was something she always spoke of when the subject of travel became a topic.

Desiree loved children, all children. Perhaps that was a major part of her becoming a teacher and a mother. She was a true God sent Blessing to me. As her husband I will always think of Desiree and keep the Love of my life in my heart forever.

She is survived by; her husband, Michael Johnson; daughter, Melinda Johnson, son, Delauno Johnson, other relatives and friends.

Friends may call Thursday, February 26 from 11:00 – 12:00 PM at The Latimer Chapel, 983 South Plymouth Avenue, Rochester, NY. The Funeral Service to Celebrate her life will immediately follow with Rev. Lawrence Hargrave, officiating. Interment at the convenience of the family.

In lieu of Flowers please consider a Donation to Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital.
www.StJude.org/donate