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Former NFL player Demetrious Johnson died on Saturday, Dec. 24, at 61. He died in a St. Louis hospital.
According to St. Louis American, Johnson died from a rare condition called aortic dissection—a tear in the inner layer of the main artery, which is typical for men in their 60s and 70s, according to Mayo Clinic.
“His family and friends are saddened by his loss,” Ashley Chin, his daughter, said.
Johnson was born (on July 21, 1961) and raised in St. Louis, living in the Darst-Webbe Public Housing Project with his single mother and seven siblings; he was the youngest.
While attending McKinley High School, he earned
a full athletic scholarship with the University of Missouri, graduating with a bachelor’s degree in education. He played defensive back for UM Tigers and was crowned a Big Eight Conference All-Star. ,He retired from professional football and began philanthropy work, founding the Demetrious Johnson Charitable Foundation in 1993. With his organization, he helped improve the lives of those in need in St. Louis, hosting food and toy drives and giveaways.
Many shared their sadness over Johnson’s death on social media.
“Sad to hear the news of the passing of Demetrious Johnson ‘The Big Fella’ he will truly be missed,” Jennings City Councilman Terry Wilson wrote on Facebook. “He truly served our community. I appreciate the friendship that we shared, and I will cherish those moments he gave wisdom and criticism. Those that served alongside him must continue his mission. Job well-done, DJ…Prayers go out to his family and friends.”
St. Louis American Newspaper contributing writer Maurice Scott wrote, “I’m just LOSS for words…Him defending me on ANYTHING well-doneROBLEM with ANYBODY! Phone…Hello? ‘I don’t know what’s going on with you and Maurice, but that’s my guy. So, if you have a problem with him. You got a problem with me.’”
Johnson is survived by his daughters Ashley, Taylore, Alexandria, Lakisha and Syndey; and son, Jalen. He’s also survived by his high school sweetheart and wife of 37 years, Pat.