Former NFL Player and Community Leader Demetrious Johnson deceased at the age of 61.
When it comes to being a solid staple in the community. There is no one more important than Demetrious Johnson. The St. Louis native played defensive back at Mizzou in the early 80’s and then in the NFL for five seasons with the Detroit Lions.
After retirement, Johnson helped thousands of people through his charitable Demetrious Johnson foundation. And you would also find him working diligently as a popular radio personality on main stream as well as podcast.
It is with great sadness, I announce Demetrious Johnson has passed away today on December 24, at the age of 61. Family members state that Johnson died of a heart-related condition at a local St. Louis hospital.
He had been in the hospital since the past week. Johnson was the youngest of eight children and was raised by a single mother, in the Peabody Darst-Webbe Public Housing Project south of downtown St. Louis.
Messages poured all across social media as people talked about how much Johnson meant to them and was in disbelief at his passing. For the past 31 years, Demetrious Johnson and his foundation have delivered over 3,000 turkey baskets each year to families in need.
In addition, Johnson just had his 32nd annual Christmas for Kids event where he gave away thousands of dollars worth of toys to deserving kids along with food and live entertainment.
In one of his last interviews captured at his turkey giveaway. (Video courtesy of KSDK News 5)
Demetrious stated “You’re affecting so many people, and you’re changing lives,” And that’s what it’s all about, just taking your gifts and your blessings and being a blessing to someone else. That’s what I love doing.”
In addition, Johnson just had his 32nd annual Christmas for Kids event where he gave away thousands of dollars worth of toys to deserving kids along with food and live entertainment.
Demetrious Johnson was a kind soul and a large pillar in the community. He will truly be missed.
