Derious "DJ" Maurice Johnson's Obituary
Derious “DJ” Maurice Johnson, 39, of Huntington, West Virginia, departed this life on February 20, 2026. He was born on April 2, 1986, in Huntington, West Virginia, at Cabell Hospital.
Derious was a man of strength, discipline, and purpose. Known for his militant mindset and unwavering attention to detail, he commanded respect the moment he entered a room. DJ observed everything, missed nothing, and carried himself with confidence and intention. Those who knew him understood his presence was powerful, his standards were high, and his loyalty was unmatched.
Raised in Huntington, DJ became well known throughout the city for his charming, charismatic personality and natural ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He has spent many summers in California and in Cincinnati with family. Those are experiences that helped shape his broad perspective and deep appreciation for family.
In 2014, DJ began his coaching journey, starting when his son, Budda, was just three years old. Coaching was not just a passion for him—it was a calling. He poured his heart into mentoring youth, instilling discipline, confidence, and accountability both on and off the court. He coached numerous teams and programs, including YMCA teams, CTA, Southside Elementary, Team Mayo, St. Joe, and most recently founded his own team, Team Ballin (B. All. In.), a reflection of his philosophy and commitment to excellence.
DJ held a deep love and passion for coaching at St. Joe Middle School, where his impact extended far beyond the court. His dedication to the school, the players, and the program led to meaningful changes that strengthened the team and the culture as a whole. Coaching his son at St. Joe was one of his greatest joys, and he took immense pride in helping shape not only better athletes, but better young men through discipline, structure, and belief.
Above all else, DJ was a devoted father. He leaves behind his beloved children: Dashanti Johnson (16), Janayah Johnson (8), and Derious Johnson Jr. (14), who were the pride and purpose of his life.
He is survived by his parents, Tracy Phillips and Kimberly Johnson; his partner, Natalie Jackson; his grandmother who raised him Patty Daniel’s; and his siblings: Derrek Johnson, Dedra Debose, Demarcus Debose, Deshira Page, Mia Holmes, Christopher Moore, Arialle Phillips, Tracy Phillips, Shamika Lyons, Phabian Phillips, Arian Phillips, Aalaijah Phillips, and High Roller (Baby D). He also leaves behind a host of extended family, friends, players, and community members whose lives were forever impacted by his guidance, leadership, and love.
He was preceded in death by his grandmother, Mae; his grandfather, Jimmy; his uncle, Pat D.; his uncle, Willis Johnson; and his brother, Elias Phillips.
Derious “DJ” Maurice Johnson will be remembered as a leader, mentor, protector, and force within his community. He will also be remembered for his unforgettable smile that could light up any room, and for a laugh so genuine and powerful that it will forever echo in the hearts of those who knew and loved him. His legacy lives on through his children, his teams, and every life he touched.
We all we got! We all we need! — Coach DJ
“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith.”
— 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)
Funeral Service will be held at 1 PM Wednesday, March 4, 2026, at Christ Temple Church, Huntington, WV. Burial will follow at Spring Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be held one hour prior to the service at the church. Hall Funeral Home and Crematory, Proctorville, OH, is assisting the family with arrangements. Condolences may be expressed to the family at https://ehallfuneralhome.com.
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