In Memory
DENNIS JOHN DEVLIN APRIL 1, 1947 DECEMBER 29, 2024
It is with a deep sadness and also a grateful heart that we announce the passing of Dennis J. Devlin, who entered the gates of Heaven on December 29th, 2024, at the age of 77. Dennis was the beloved husband of Linda (Lohman) Devlin for 53 years. Together, they built a beautiful family, and their love and commitment to one another was an inspiration to all who knew them.
Dennis was a proud father to his son, Denny (Susan), and daughters, Dawn Lyon (Kevin) and Julia Brown (Keith). His heart swelled with love for his grandchildren—Ava and Devan Lyon, Cayce, Kane, and Chase Brown, and Colton Devlin—whom he adored and loved beyond measure. He also leaves behind his loyal and supportive siblings, Diane (Alan) Gordon, Susan Devlin, Mary Lou Devlin, and his brother, Buzzy (Nancy), who were always by his side, on his mind, and in his heart. He is also survived by his amazing brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, nieces and nephews, and grand nieces and nephews, with whom he shared his love and made countless unforgettable memories.
Dennis was born on April 1st, 1947, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he quickly became a dedicated Steelers fan, proudly waving his own Terrible Towel. He was the second child of Mabel (Eberly) and Harry Devlin, with his older sister Diane, and younger siblings Susan, Buzzy, and Mary Lou following him. Dennis graduated from Mt. Lebanon High School in 1965 a star athlete. He was determined to continue his education, and his path to college was paved by a football scholarship he put in endless effort to earn, ultimately attending the University of Wyoming. As #31 on the Cowboys football team, Dennis was known for his hard-hitting style as a safety during the golden era of Wyoming football. His time there included not only an undefeated Junior season, but also appearances in the Sun Bowl, East-West Shriners All-Star Game, Senior Bowl, and the Sugar Bowl. After being drafted by the Boston Patriots in 1969, Dennis played for two years before returning to Pittsburgh, where his heart and mind had always remained. There, he married the love of his life, Linda Lohman.
Dennis poured his heart into everything he did, from the day he was born until the day he returned to God, Dennis worked and lived tirelessly, giving his all in everything he did—whether on the field, in the classroom, on the job, or at home with his family and friends. His life was filled with a wealth of accomplishments and fond memories, with his role as the voice of the Walton Raider High School football team being one, he treasured deeply. His dedication to his loved ones, family and friends, was unwavering, and he always made sure they had everything they needed to thrive. Taking care of his family was Dennis’ top priority. His heart was as big as his voice, and his whistle—calling his children home—was a signature sound. He was at his happiest when surrounded by his wife, children, and later his sons-in-law, daughter-in-law, and grandchildren. As long as the Steelers or Cowboys weren’t on TV, family time was cherished, but if either team played, silence was required, and no one could stand in front of the TV!
Dennis was preceded in death by his parents, Mabel Eberly and Harry Devlin, as well as his stepfather, Tom Eberly. He is also reunited with cherished family members who profoundly impacted his life, including Kevin Lohman, Douglas Lohman, Bill Stout, Pete Ponne, and Mike Georgvich. Together, they are now experiencing the eternal joys of Heaven.
A service honoring Dennis' life will take place on Wednesday, January 29th, 2025, at 11:00 AM at the Catholic Church of St. Ann in Marietta, Georgia. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly asks that those wishing to show their sympathy consider making a donation to support the dedicated individuals who work with his grandson, Devan, and others on the Autism spectrum. Contributions can be made to Devan's ABA therapists at Core Connections.
Via check - 1275 Shiloh Rd NW Suite 2120 Kennesaw, Ga 30144
Via Zelle – Coreconnectionsba@gmail.com
Obituary information for Dennis J. Devlin : southerncremations.com
DENNIS JOHN DEVLIN APRIL 1, 1947 DECEMBER 29, 2024
I begin this notification with a very heavy heart.....I personally alerted some of my dearest so I could lessen the tears, but it did not help. The following is a notice from Linda and his family alerting all more information will come but they will mourn for as ever long as it will take.....followed by a special note from my sister, Diane....
From Linda and Denny, Dawn & Julia:
FROM SISTER DIANE:
I know you don’t do social media but this was the Big D, our Gentle Giant— whose legacy in the end wasn’t for football, but the amazing wonderful family he created with Linda. Our hearts are broken but our memories are wonderful. Two amazing GEORGIA men passed away on the same day.
https://www.southerncremations.com/obituaries/Dennis-J-Devlin?obId=34335390
Mark A Barlow
Deeply saddened to learn of this loss. My condolences to the Devlin family and all who shared Dennis as a friend. God Bless Dennis. May you Rest in Peace and may Eternal Light Shine upon you.
Hank Higginbottom
Three things that come to mind about my good friend Dennis "Moose" Devlin. How he always affectionately referred to his Mom as "Bear". He was smart in school and didn't let everyone know it. (Yes his glasses were at a raised position when he was concentrating). The wonderful laugh he had as he shared his World View with his good friend Robert L "Lumpy" Hippert.
Hig
Richard L McMillan
As we age we all start experiencing the loss of friends, family, and other loved ones. It doesn't get easier. As I prepare for my late sister's memorial service, I can empathize with the Devlin family's loss. Rest in peace, Dennis.
Steven H Nagel
Rest in peace old friend.. Sorry we lost contact with each other. I have nothing but great memories of our wonderful growing up years. Condolences to Diane, Sue and Buzzy,
Steve
Thomas E Couch
When my family moved to Mt. Lebanon and I initially attended markham in the fifth grade, Dennis was the first classmate to befriend me - and he remained a compassionate and caring friend over the years. I am heartbroken to hear of his passing yet will always remember his smile and his concern for others. It may be considered a cliche but Dennis was truly a great guy. My deepest condolences to Linda and the family. May he rest in eternal peace.
Blair Meiser
So sorry to hear about Dennis passing! He was always a leading figure in the class of '65. My profound condolences to his family. Loss is always tough. Remember the good times, the fun times and celebrate the life he lived.
Arlene J Cenedella
My deepest sympathy for the passing of this amazing individual. Not only was he one of my favorite Blue Devils to cheer for but became an incredible family man. Although we may mourn the man we should "cheer" for the amazing man be became and the family he left behind. Yeah "Dennis!"
Susan L Fleming (Morgans)
I have already expressed my deep sympathy to Dennis's wonderful family. Although I have lost many good friends and acquaintances over the years, losing Dennis has hit very hard. He was someone many of us admired and looked up to, both in school and as he lived out his life. Dennis was kind and principled. He probably didn't always do the right thing—who does?—but he tried to. He faced illness bravely. He loved his family deeply. He was a good friend to many. We will not forget him!
Douglas M Hill
Denny’s passing was very sad news and I reach out to his family and friends with my heartfelt condolences. His death along with many other ’65 ML classmates over the past 50+ years triggers memories of a time when we were teenagers. And chances are very good that most classmates during the ’64-65 school year recognized immediately the name Dennis Devlin as a popular classmate and outstanding offensive end on the football team. If they were lucky enough to spend some quality time with Denny, they also knew him to be a kind and caring person who combined his natural leadership instincts with a ready smile.
I knew Denny well but only for four months in the late summer and autumn of 1964. I was a transfer from the Philadelphia area attending ML High for my senior year. I first met Denny at pre-season “Fife boot camp.” I liked him instantly and began to draw upon his experience to learn the culture and nuances of Mt. Lebanon football. Because I was also an offensive end, we drilled and practiced together on weekdays. We were part of a unit, together on the field of play huddleing and executing Coach Fife’s play calling at the Friday night games, and we connected at the Rec on Sundays to evaluate the game film. Much can be learned about a person having those kind of experiences over a concentrated period of time. The team goal was winning and the process to acheive that goal exposed individual personalities and represented a wide range of emotions and stress, and joy and pain. That was a heavy load for 16 and 17 year olds but Denny was one of those extrordinary teenagers who appeared to handle that load very well.
Later, I always looked forward to class reunions and talking with Denny about his family, work, his Wyoming days, and of course, rehashing our Lebo team’s “glory days” as Western Conference champions and even the bitter pill of our poor performance and defeat that awful night at Uniontown. I believe I’m close to remembering Denny’s words at one reunion when he put a period on that dissapointing topic by saying something like ‘Hey guys, we won all our games before that night and all of them after.’ That would have been Denny, that was his way.
Edward H Greenwald
Dennis Devlin was, is, and will always be a Gift. His smile, humor, champion’s attitude, genuine warmth, and immense work ethic is a source of goodwill that for me will never be exhausted. Denny was the first to welcome this old Mountaineer to Markham when I moved here from West Virginia. It has taken a bit for me to process his journey beyond the veil. Knowing Denny, I am certain he “played through the whistle”. I can do no less in my feeble attempt to honor my Friend. Condolences and genuine Love to all the Devlin Clan. Cowboys never say “goodbye, just so long”.