Dennis J. Campbell

Dennis James Campbell passed away November 3, 2023 at the age of 71.

Dennis (Denny) was born on April 25, 1952 in Warren, Michigan on the Campbell family farm. He was the 6th of 14 children born to Raymond & Ethel Campbell. He received his early education at St Lawrence Catholic School in Utica, Michigan, graduating in 1970. Dennis continued his education at Michigan State University, culminating in a PhD from Auburn University in 2002 with a focus on rehabilitation and special education. Dennis was an amazing person who developed lifelong friendships wherever he went and spent his entire career working with organizations with a mission and vision of helping others. Most notably he was awarded a Paul Harris Fellow of Rotary Foundation of Rotary International. His first job in Chicago mentoring troubled teens at a half-way house was the start of his incredible journey. When he got tired of the northern climate, he made his way to Alabama where he started out as a handyman. In 2001, Dennis and family moved to Arkansas where he continued his journey as an Associate Professor at Arkansas State University teaching special education. His career also took him back to Alabama and teaching at the University of South Alabama where he specialized in programs to support special needs. Dennis retired in 2019 and settled with his family in Auburn, Alabama, where he enjoyed woodworking, entertaining and quality family time.

Dennis married Sharon (Shari) Huffman on April 14,1990 and their marriage was blessed with two beautiful daughters, Amy and Kelly, who were the pride and joy of Dennis’s world. Dennis was devoted to the loving family that surrounded him, generously giving and supportive at every turn. The entire family is actively involved with the 5p Minus Society where their contributions are limitless. The annual conference was always a highlight of their year and Dennis worked tirelessly to maximize the quality of life for those with Cri du Chat Syndrome.

Dennis is survived by his loving wife, Shari, and daughters Amy and Kelly. Also surviving are siblings Lois Campbell, Marilyn (Mike) Smith, Ray (Shelley) Campbell, Janet (Denny) Stark, Charlene (Gary) Kogelmann, Roger (Shirley) Campbell, Allan (Pam) Campbell, Bill (Sandra) Campbell, Annette (Ray) Marcath, Paulette (Ike) Miller, Joe (Michele) Campbell, father-in-law Dale Huffman and long-time companion Blanche McElfresh, in-laws Randy (Lisa Mina) Huffman and Emily (Mike) Waldrop. Dennis is also the proud uncle of numerous nieces and nephews. He was pre-deceased by his parents Raymond and Ethel, mother-in-law JoAnn Huffman, brother Gary and sister Nancy. 

In lieu of flowers, the family would request donations be made to 5pminus.org.