Daniel Ryan Johnson

Daniel Ryan Johnson, age 7, was welcomed into heaven on September 16, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Angels are rejoicing, bells are ringing, and the gates of heaven have opened to welcome Daniel. Though his time on earth was short, Daniel’s impact was immeasurable. He is now home with the Lord, healed and cancer free, where he lives for all eternity.

Daniel was born on July 3, 2018, to his loving parents, Erik and Rebecca Johnson, joining his big brother, Caleb. From the moment he arrived, Daniel brought joy and laughter to all who knew him. He was a happy, spunky, and full-of-life little boy who loved building Legos, playing Hot Wheels, watching the “Cars” movies, and cuddling with his family. He found joy in all moments, whether blowing bubbles or playing his favorite video games, especially the “Super Mario Bros.” franchise.

He adored his year in kindergarten at Central College Christian School, where he cherished the love and support of the faculty and staff. He especially loved his teachers, Bethany and Megan, and treasured the friendships he built with his classmates. Among them, his special bond with Cora and Lucia will always hold a place in our hearts.

Daniel’s ability to spread happiness was remarkable; as Anne Frank once said, “Whoever is happy will make others happy too,” and Daniel embodied this with every smile.

We are deeply grateful for the countless individuals across all services and departments at Nationwide Children’s Hospital who so faithfully cared for Daniel and supported our family. Through their dedication and compassion, Daniel was always made to feel valued, cherished, and deeply loved. The entire NCH community will forever hold a special place in our hearts.

Diagnosed at the age of 2 with Stage 4 High-Risk Neuroblastoma, a rare pediatric cancer, Daniel’s journey was filled with challenges. Through his over 5-year journey, he remained a fighter! His strength, bravery, and infectious joy inspired everyone around him. While he endured unimaginable trials, he did so with resilience, always finding ways to smile, laugh, and love. His courageous spirit never wavered, and he touched the lives of countless people with his pure heart, beautiful smile, contagious laughter, and overwhelmingly positive attitude, never once being discouraged.

Despite enduring numerous surgeries, extensive chemotherapy and radiation, clinical trials, a stem cell transplant, and the added burden of kidney disease, Daniel faced each challenge with steadfast bravery, without complaint. His joyful spirit shone brightly; he was truly a ray of sunshine, always ready with a smile, a laugh, and a heart full of love.

Daniel’s family finds peace in the knowledge that he is now with his Heavenly Father, healed and whole. We take comfort in the thought of Daniel dancing with loved ones gone before him, celebrating in heaven’s embrace. We also find comfort in the scripture of Daniel 6:23 - Daniel was taken up out of the den, and no kind of harm was found on him, because he had trusted in his God.

Daniel’s legacy will live on in the hearts of his family and friends. He is deeply loved and will be forever missed by his parents, Erik and Rebecca; his brother, Caleb; his grandparents, Paul Johnson, Grover Benge, and Nettie Snellings; his aunt and uncle, Brittany (Johnson) and Drew Ego; and many other family members, friends, and loved ones. He was preceded in death by his paternal grandmother, Mary Johnson.

The family invites friends and loved ones to join them in celebrating Daniel’s life at a viewing on Friday, September 26th, from 5 – 7 PM at Quest Vineyard Church, 4877 Central College Rd., Westerville, OH 43081. A funeral service will be held on Saturday, September 27th, at 9:30 AM at Quest Vineyard Church, with a viewing from 8:30 – 9:30 AM prior to the service. Services will conclude at Maplewood Cemetery, New Albany, OH, where Daniel will be laid to rest. Following services, loved ones are invited to gather for a lunch at Quest Vineyard Church.

Daniel’s light will forever shine in the hearts of all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers and gifts, the family kindly asks that donations be made to either Nationwide Children’s Hospital or Central College Christian School in Daniel’s memory.

Memorial contributions in Daniel’s name to Nationwide Children’s Hospital will support Neuroblastoma Research. Donations can be made online at: https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/giving, by selecting “This is an honor or memorial gift” checkbox and placing Daniel’s name in the “Honoree” name box. Or, honorary checks, with Daniel’s name in the memo, can be sent to:

Nationwide Children’s Hospital Foundation

P.O. Box 16810

Columbus, OH 43216-6810

Memorial contributions to Central College Christian School will benefit the kindergarten classrooms. Please note Daniel’s name in the memo. Donations can be mailed to:

Central College Christian School

975 S. Sunbury Rd.

Westerville, OH 43081

Daniel fought the good fight, he finished the race, he kept the faith. ~ 2 Timothy 4:7