Johnny Weldon Hendon

Johnny Weldon Hendon, 88, passed away July 25, 2022, at home in Harvey, Louisiana. Johnny, the youngest of seven siblings, was born June 19, 1934, in McCaulley, Texas, to Viola (Griffith) and Lee Hendon. He was raised in Rotan, Texas, and graduated from Rotan High School. Johnny worked hard for more than 50 years in the oil industry in Texas, New Mexico, and Louisiana, and finished his career in the New Orleans area, which he loved for its live music, great food, and fun-loving people. He was known in the south Louisiana oilfield for his great chili and barbecue, and enjoyed cooking at industry events and for loved ones at home. His passion for great music took him everywhere from Turkey, Texas, for the annual Bob Wills Day celebration, to small venues in the French Quarter to see blues and jazz legends, and local dive bars to see outlaw country greats. Johnny’s love for classic cars, spurred on at an early age by his older brothers, led to the on-going restoration of his pride and joy—a baby blue 1951 Chevy pickup truck. Some of his fondest memories were driving (or hauling) his truck with family and friends to the Cruisin’ the Coast festival along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Whether they called him “Dad,” “Pops,” “Uncle,” or “friend,” the people he leaves behind are better for having known him. He is preceded in death by his parents; sisters Bernice Loving and Jo Ann Morris; and brothers W.B., Ernest Jack, Terrell “Slats,” and Jay Hendon.
Johnny is survived by his wife of 43 years, Anise; two daughters, Johnnie Westerhaus and husband, Dave, of Houston, and Kathy Dannewitz, of Mandeville, Louisiana; two sons, Keith Dannewitz and wife, Christie, of Gretna, Louisiana, and Kurt Dannewitz, of Sequim, Washington; three grandchildren, Drew, Jonah, and Aiden Dannewitz; and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.
A private service for the family will be scheduled at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please raise a glass to Johnny and make a donation to your favorite charity. Mothe Funeral Homes handled arrangements.