Dennis Johnson

Dennis Johnson

Dennis Johnson Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Feb. 22, 2007.
AUSTIN, Texas (AP) - Dennis Johnson, the star NBA guard who was part of three championships and teamed with Larry Bird on one of the great postseason plays, died Thursday after collapsing at the end of his developmental team's practice. He was 52.

Johnson, coach of the Austin Toros, was unconscious and in cardiac arrest when paramedics arrived at Austin Convention Center, said Warren Hassinger, spokesman for Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Services.

Johnson, a five-time All-Star and one of the top defensive guards, was part of the last Boston dynasty. He spent 14 seasons in the league and retired after the 1989-90 season. He played on title teams with the Celtics in 1984 and 1986 and with the Seattle SuperSonics in 1979, when he was the NBA finals MVP.

Johnson was a favorite teammate of Bird's, and the two were part of one of the most memorable plays in Celtics history.

During the fifth game of the 1987 Eastern Conference finals against Detroit, Bird stole Isiah Thomas' inbounds pass under Boston's basket and fed Johnson, who drove in for the winning layup. Boston won the series in seven games but lost to the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA finals.

In the 1984 finals, Johnson guarded Magic Johnson effectively in the last four games. In 1985, he hit a last-second jumper against Los Angeles that won the fourth game.

He averaged 14.1 points and 5.0 assists for his career. When he retired, he was the 11th player in NBA history to total 15,000 points and 5,000 assists.

Johnson was born Sept. 18, 1954, in Compton, Calif. He played at Pepperdine and was drafted by Seattle in 1976. He was traded to Phoenix in 1980 and Boston in 1983.

Copyright © 2007 The Associated Press

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February 27, 2025

Donna posted to the memorial.

July 20, 2024

Steven A Connelly posted to the memorial.

February 24, 2024

Donna posted to the memorial.

1066 Entries

Donna

February 27, 2025

Doable but still hurts.
Miss you!

Steven A Connelly

July 20, 2024

One of the best basketball players I ever saw.....on both ends of the court!

Donna

February 24, 2024

In loving memory. We will love you and miss you always.

Terry

October 22, 2023

Here it is 17 years after Dennis passed away, and as a Seattle Sonics long time fan(1967), I still appreciate him. As a former basketball player, I always appreciated his and Gus Johnson´s amazing play! Gone WAY too soon, I send love and caring to his wife Donna and his kids. God bless Dennis and his family.

Craig

March 11, 2021

He was my all-time favorite player throughout his career. It’s been 14 years. My best to his family and loved ones.

March 1, 2020

I would like to offer my condolences to the family and friends of mr Dennis Johnson may he be blessed by the God of tender mercies

Min Fong Lee

November 29, 2019

Dennis was a dear friend at Pepperdine University. To this day I recall our little chats together. But one of the events that takes to heart is that he wanted to spar with me because I taught the Self-Defense Classes. He and two others put on the gloves and took me on (one at a time of course) and I told them they each had 2 minutes to go at me...and don't hold back! Neither one lasted 1 minute. I just covered up for a little while and watch their punches come from Chicago (Yeah I was shorter than they were). Once their guard was down I went to town until they told me to stop. We sat and chatted and I told them, "You run basketball court in the morning, in the afternoon and in the evening. You are in better physical condition then I with strength and stamina...but your game is Basketball...and mine is hitting. It's a different psychological attitude and because you stepped into a different court...you have to consider different aspects of offense and defense. In your world of Basketball you have rules...in my world the only rule is to do whatever it takes to win!" Dennis put his arm around me and thanked me for the experience...and lesson. We always acknowledged each other whenever we crossed paths on campus. He was and has been a sparkle in my life and I am honored to have shared time with him...though short...it was priceless!

Chris Hetzer

July 23, 2019

What a great player Dennis was. RIP

Donna

May 9, 2019

https://tribute-to-dennis-johnson.muchloved.com

Donna

May 9, 2019

Thank you Dennis for being in my life.... https://youtu.be/hXDsldkNwLU

David Makrianes

May 7, 2019

My hero growing up ... loved DJ

ARTHUR SWANSON

April 12, 2019

I was fortunate to watch Dennis play for the Sonics. I never missed a game and always got there early to watch Dennis and the team warm up. He was a great player and I could never understand why the Sonics traded such a great talent.
When he died I was depressed for days. I watched his play with Bird when he was with the Celtics. A great combination.

Melinda Johnson

January 3, 2019

As the days and weeks pass, and as you return to life's routine, may you continue to feel comforted by the love and support of family and friends.

L. Wise

October 13, 2018

I was always a big fan of Dennis, may be rest in peace.

Carol Blackwell

June 21, 2018

Donna,
I will always cherish the fond memories and beautiful friendship that I shared with you and Dennis. Although my heart saddens whenever I'm reminded of his passing, I will be forever grateful for the blessings that he graciously shared with everyone that he met. I miss you both and I hope we can reunite to celebrate his life together in the near future. Thank you for continuing his legacy. Carol Blackwell (Formally Carol (Dudley) Bradley

Ken Hudson

March 4, 2018

Always loved the way DJ played the game. Did not know him personally but
if he approached life the way he did basketball I'm sure he found a tremendous
amount of success in it too. R.I.P Dennis - you are missed.

March 2, 2018

Hi want to tell that Dennis was a excellent point guard.i always favored a guard who played very good defence.he was very acknowledgable about the game.his offence was very deceptive,because he. Didn,t look fast but he. Always manage to get to the hoop.johnson was a pleasure to watch, and he was very under rated










He was one of the best. Point guard in his time god knows i,ll always remember johnson.3

March 2, 2018

Hi want to tell that Dennis was a excellent point guard.i always favored a guard who played very good defence.he was very acknowledgable about the game.his offence was very deceptive,because he. Didn,t look fast but he. Always manage to get to the hoop.johnson was a pleasure to watch, and he was very under rated

Tom Sullivan

February 23, 2018

I am just Boston Celtic fan thinking about the day DJ and ML Carr came into the store I was working in Newton, MA while I was going to College . To this day I remember DJ's big smile when he walked through the door and of course we all had the thrill of a lifetime to have World Champs in our presence.
To this day when I tell folks I met DJ it brings a smile to my face. God Bless. Rest in peace DJ.

February 22, 2018

Rest in peace Dennis.

Dean Johnson

February 12, 2018

Just sitting here in the middle of the night thinking about so many things and as usual you are on my mind as is mamma daddy dee dee marion gramma sarah gramma minerva my daughter jasmine granpa herb poppa jason uncle herb and so many others that have moved on to the better place i sit here with tears in my eyes hoping that i am making a positive difference in someones life like all of you did. Missing you all!


Dean B. Johnson

December 31, 2017

Happy Blessed New Year!
-From DJ's Family

Donna

December 31, 2017

Thank you all for still remembering Dennis even after much time has passed and having him still in your hearts. He is always loved and thought of in our hearts. Wishing everyone a Happy and Blessed New Year! -DJ wife

July 23, 2017

my favorite player of all-time. michael k. gardner (racice, wisconsin

Chris Peterson

June 16, 2017

Thanks to DJ's family for keeping this permanent. After the recent 30 for 30 I remember how much I admired him as a player & man. There were a lot of stars playing during those games but in my mind DJ was always the best on the wood! God Bless DJ & his family, gone but never forgotten.

April 7, 2017

To one of the finest and great Celtic and NBA player of all time. Thank you for the greatest moments and memories. Rest In Heaven!!!!

Joe Murphy

January 21, 2017

Great person and basketball player. Love watching him on the Celtics. RIP.

David Crawford

December 9, 2016

My favorite Celtic loved his freckles and red tinted hair. And that smile, a TEAM player tough, I miss him..

Lisa Blackwell

October 18, 2016

So sorry to hear this. I know it's been some time that this has happened. I met DJ once while playing against the LA LAKERS. My step dad attended Compton College. That's where the two met. I know that they are n heaven watching over us.

Michael Collins

October 10, 2016

Dennis Johnson was one of my favorite players ever. I first saw him in action when I was a kid and he played for Seattle. Celtics would not have had the success in the 80's without DJ. His effort and determination and toughness were inspiring. I have 2 hoops playing sons and they are frequently reminded to "play like DJ!" Prayers are offered to this day for his family and friends.

Valenda Newell

June 28, 2016

Loved watching him play bb on the Boston Celtic team, one of best point guards in the NBA. I was very upset when I learned he was no longer with us..no worries his bb skills will always be with me THE BEST of THE BEST...GONE TOO SOON!

Shae Lacy

April 22, 2016

In loving memory

Harry Simpson

February 23, 2016

Thank you for sharing a part of your life with us.

Liam Keyes

December 28, 2015

I'm a Celtics Fan. DJ was awesome and e made the "Big Three better (Larry Bird, Robert Parish and Kevin McHale}. The other guys on the team would extoll the virtues of DJ. He sacrificed his own game to make them better. He was the consumnate pro! Rest in Peace DJ.

Donna Johnson

September 21, 2015

Remembering our Anniversary :) 9/21/76

vivian g.

May 23, 2015

Oh how sad it is to hear that Dennis Johnson has passed on. What a great player & man he was. RIP Dennis❤

CJ Thomas

May 18, 2015

I was a Celtic fan growing up and as an an adult watched DJ play as well. Somehow I missed the news of his passing. I heard of it during this year's playoff as well as the mentioning of his nephew who currently
in the league-RIP C.J. Thomas Live Oak Fl.

Albert Phillips

May 9, 2015

Wow glad he's getting into the basketball of Hall Fame.was always a fan of how he played even though I was a Lakers fan.. thanks for the memories D.J

January 15, 2015

Dennis was one of the best forever R.I.P. U
are truly missed

Marisha Renee" Johnson-Johnston

January 2, 2015

My Uncle was one of the best on and off the court. He is dearly missed.

Randy Thornburg

December 3, 2014

He was as intelligent point guard the nba will ever see.
Such a competitor

November 6, 2014

DJ that was my guy when he played for Boston. May the family continue to be strengthen by the most high God during their period of sorrow. He will be truly miss by ALL.

August 6, 2014

So sorry for your loss.

Richard Jones

March 15, 2014

First time isaw DJ was in Tucson when Pepperdine played No.1 San Francisco in the NCAA . Nobody ever heard of him. San Fran had 2 7 footers one of whom was Bill Cartwright. DJ jumped center and won the toss and the game. I loved him and his game. As I recall Boston got him to stop Andrew Toney of Philly. Stopping Majic was a bonus. I'm watching his nephew Nick right now. Rest in peace DJ.

Chris Williamson

February 22, 2014

God is the Creator of life.Psalm 36:9 The one who gave life to all living creatures is certainly capable of restoring life to someone who has died.

Earlie Johnson

December 24, 2013

TO THE DENNIS JOHNSON'S FAMILY HELLO.
MY NAME IS EARLIE JOHNSON MY FATHER'S NAME IS EARNEST JOHNSON THE BROTHER OF JOHN, EMMIT,AND JIM JOHNSON I WAS TOLD THAT DENNIS FATHER WAS ALSO EARLIE IF SO I LIKE TO HEAR FROM YOU I UNDERSTAND HIS WIFE'S NAME IS DONNA.THIS IS MY E-MALIL.
[email protected].
MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL.

karl johnson

August 26, 2013

this is my first statement about my brother i really do miss talking to him an i want people to know this guy gave his all weather it was basketball or everyday life we miss u everyday my brother an one day we will b playing ball again just like old times donna i love u an the kids an hope to c u all soon

karl johnson

August 26, 2013

this is my first statement about my brother i really do miss talking to him an i want people to know this guy gave his all weather it was basketball or everyday life we miss u everyday my brother

Bridgette Arnold

November 29, 2011

I really didn't know him as well as I would have liked but I can say that I enjoyed watching him play at the park after school on the way home. And he is truely a legend and greatly missed. Hope louis and him are hanging out. LOL

Casey Johnson

November 29, 2011

As I read all these wonderful heartfelt memories every1 shares makes me feel bittersweet I'm glad I'm a talker and I luv all my family equally. UNC Dennis u were so down 2 earth chill like ur greatness came 2nd 2 u being my uncle because u were greatness I got the chance 2 B there when U were honored at the HOF and I must say it was 1 of thee best times of my life I remember being there & just being so sad 4 Auntie Donna once again bittersweet.I never n my 34yrs of life seen my Dad more nervous because he wanted 2 B perfect 4 U & I know u were there with ur hand on his shoulder as he honored U.. U R truly missed & you've got great company up there tell my brother I miss him and I love all u in heaven.. U R a Legend UNC and I'm proud 2 B a Johnson #3!

Ellen Sampson

June 28, 2011

My favorite Celtic. DJ.

kathy

May 15, 2011

Dennis Johnson will always be an amazing talent. And so greatly missed; and what blessing for us all who had the privilege of watching him play the game that so many love. Our prayers go out to his family, friends and the entire NBA Family. "May GOD Bless; and our prayers go out for the family and friends." Blessings to All,

Kathy

Donna

February 22, 2011

Today makes 4 years, still missed as if it was yesterday. Love and Peace my Love

Mike Deane

August 16, 2010

I am @ a loss for words. Dennis was a great man! Family are in my prayers always. Donna if you happen to see this msg please contact me.This is mike,i stayed with you guys in scottsdale Az. while i attended college. i've been trying to reach you email [email protected] YOU!!!!

Lisa Freeman

August 12, 2010

My condolences and heart goes out to the Johnson family. Dennis was and always will be my favorite celtic. I admired his way of playing ball on the court I never saw him going after his opponents in a bad way. DJ was a very under rated NBA guard. I'm so thrilled that he's been inducted into the hall of fame. It just saddens my heart that DJ couldn't have been here to witness all the fans congratulate his NBA contributions and accomplishments, as well as being happy for him. To the family, be blessed and know that the lord will ease your pain and sorrow from the lost of your loved one, as each day passes by. DJ rest in peace and know that I'm still your number one fan and cheering you onward because you have finally reach the hall of fame with the lord, and I can't imagine a better place for you than to be with Jesus:)

Nancy Henry

May 24, 2010

DJ gave us many wonderful memories when he played for the Sonics. I got to see him in action when I lived there, and he was really something!

marian

May 6, 2010

So very proud of my little brother,I'm missing him much.

tony rivera

April 16, 2010

MY RESPECT AND PRAYERS GOING OUT TO THE JOHNSONS FAMILY.I DID NOT KNOW DENNIS BUT I KNEW HIS OLDER BROTHERS QUICK AND TONY FROM THE WILMINGTON AREA.I AM FROM HAWAII BUT I USED TO SHIP OUT AS A MERCHANT SEAMAN OUT OF THE WILMINGTON HALL ACROSS FROM THE BEACON LIGHT MISSION.THATS WHERE I MET QUICK AND TONY TWO OF THE JOHNSON BROTHERS.QUICK AND TONY LOOKED OUT FOR ME AND HAD MY BACK OUT IN THE STREETS OF WILMINGTON CALIFORNIA.I WILL NEVER FORGET WHAT THEY BOTH DID FOR ME.I WILL REMEBER THE JOHNSON FAMILY IN MY PRAYERS AT NIGHT.GODBLESS THE JOHNSON FAMILY AND GODBLESS BOTH QUICK AND TONY .

MARK COLLINS

April 6, 2010

One of the most clutch performers in NBA history. Fantastic defender with the heart of a lion. We miss you DJ, congrats on finally making the HALL !

leo derosia

April 4, 2010

ONCE A CELTIC, ALWAYS A CELTIC...CONGRATULATIONS TO DENNIS JOHNSON ON HIS ELECTION TO THE NAISMITH MEMORIAL BASKETBALL HALL OF FAME...LIGHT ONE UP FOR #3 RED!

Nazarene Mckinney

March 22, 2010

Dennis Johnson left us some great moments in basketball to cherish. He broke my heart many times with his excellent basketball skills. He was a rival you loved to see play against your favorite team. My sincerest thanks to his family for sharing this wonderful man with us. May the family find comfort in the promise at Psalms 37:29 "The righeous themselves will possess the earth, And they will reside forever upon it".

Regina Dillard

June 15, 2009

Dennis was always a nice sweet guy. I met him when he played with Phoenix and Truck. We remained friends even though we seldom saw each other, but Dennis would always be there if you needed him.

I wish his family the best because a good man has truly passed on.

Cathy Cooper

May 20, 2009

I was a good friend to Dennis and he was a good friend to me. I think of him every day. If any of his friends or family would like to talk, please contact me.
[email protected]
Coop

Laval Caraway

May 14, 2009

This was truly a great person! The humility,& talent brought together,made such a plesant & motivating friendship. The good olde days at Pepperdine University would have not been the same without you & Donna. THANK GOD FOR YOUR FRIENDSHIP!

Cathy Cooper

April 24, 2009

Not a day goes by that I don't think of you and miss our talks. I always loved to talk about the day you were having, what I was up to and your team and family.

Until we meet again,
Coop

Jesse Lopez

April 15, 2009

Dear Johnson Family, I'm really sorry for your loss. Craig, Dean and Joey we grew up together playing at the park near Crestwood and Summerland in SP. When I first got word that DJ had gone to be with the Lord, I called my brothers Beto and Noah and we prayed for the Johnson family. I met DJ in 1979 the year he won the title with Seattle as well as the MVP.
I worked with his brother Carl in a print shop in SP. what struck me the most about DJ was how down to earth he was with everyone, he was a real gentleman on and off the court. Even when the Clippers didn't give you a much deserved opportunity to coach them, you handled yourself with dignity.
Being a life long Lakers fan, loosing to the Celtics in the 80's was painful, but it was OK only because DJ was part of the winning team. You are the only Celtic I ever rooted for.
Thank you for making such a great impression on a 17 year old back in 79'
You will truly be missed.

Sincerely,

Andrea Jordan

April 15, 2009

DJ, the heart of the Celtics! Rest easy, you left us too soon!

Marky Gutman

December 26, 2008

underneath to dj he lays it up and in!! with one second to go!!! ooo my goodness this place is goin crazy!!!!!

craig johnson

November 3, 2008

RED, this is your lil bra still down under with my family i have been looking at this for awhile now and the word s just dont seem to come because still it is hard for me to believe that he is really gone. Knowing that people say that Red is in a better place that is just to hard for me to see. i thought someone said red but it was just the wind as i followed i had to stop and really think as i do think of you red the smile lights up my face i am so proud to be your lil brother and hope you really understsnd. sorry i didnt tell you this i guest we all think that we have time.But family and friends just tell people what they mean to to you dont let it slip away. To all my brothers and sisters miss you and love you all and family and friends alike craig just living u know peace.

Michael Burns

September 13, 2008

DJ was not only a great defender and clutch performer, he was a good neighbor, flashing a warm smile of greeting as he headed into his South End home. I am equally grateful for his contributions to the Celtics AND his resilience when facing life's challenges. It saddens me that he is not here to teach others this valuable life lesson in person. He is in my hall-of-fame.

Donna Johnson

August 19, 2008

Everyone is welcome to also visit Dennis site at: http://dennis.johnson.muchloved.com
Done by his family.
God Bless to all who wrote contributions and continue to bless us with your words.
You are missed and Loved DJ everyday.

sherri bebber

June 18, 2008

gone too soon. we'll never forget you

J M

June 17, 2008

Dennis must be smiling tonight.

marian anderson

June 13, 2008

I am dennis johnson oldest sister and I would like to take this time to thank all of you for your warm thoughts, are 11 brothers, and 3 sisters, we loved our brother very much, and will always miss him, thank you again for caring

Greg Richard

June 12, 2008

It's kind of amazing that I was moved to look for a way to express what one of my favorite all time basketball players meant to me. I have been witnessing on NBA channel the last week or so the several championship series that took place in the 80's between the Celtics and the LA Lakers. We all know how great they were then and even a stronger appreciation for them now. There was a gentleman for the Celtics that I had always had an admiration for since I first saw him play with Gus Williams in Seattle. I've played baskeball and have watched the game since the late 60's with my dad who was a huge Celtic and Bill Russell fan. What I enjoyed the most about DJ was the fact that he was a winner and that he knew his role no matter where he played. I too patterned my game after his. One of the first guards since Walt Frazier (Knicks) to play the game on both ends of the court the way it was meant to be played. Hall of Fame needs to consider Dennis Johnson because of the way he played the game, which was to WIN, and he always put the team first. Thanks DJ and may God keep you and watch over your family.

Steven Scott

June 10, 2008

To The Johnson Family,

I remember when I fell in love with the game of basketball. I remember the day I made my first basket. I also remember why I wore #24 for my school basketball team. DJ has always been my favorite player, and I am still saddened by his death. After his playing days were over, I prayed that he would get a head coaching job in the league. His style, dedication, and knowledge of the game made him worthy of that. I'm grateful I had the opportunity to meet him at the "All-Star" practice in Cleveland (1980). My prayers are with all of you, and I hope that you find comfort in knowing that DJ touched many lives. May God bless each and everyone of you.

Bernard Moore, Jr

February 28, 2008

Rest in Peace DJ, you were a great player and true Gentlemen. Ambassador of the game.

Richard Lyle

February 28, 2008

what a blessing to all the world not just the N.B.A. thank you dennis for your contribution to the sport and to all you are trully an allstar, play on in heaven

Matthew J. McCullough

February 22, 2008

FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS...GONE FAR TOO SOON............From all your fans up in Seattle,Washington.....R.I.P. "DJ"

Cathy Cooper

February 21, 2008

Tomorrow will be a year since you passed away.
It's been a tough year for me as a friend and surely a terrible one for your family.
I miss talking to you about the simple things in life and hearing that wonderful laugh you had!
I miss you Dennis. We all miss you!
Until we meet again, your forever friend, Coop

Dave McDane;d

January 20, 2008

Dj and family,
Being from the NW in the late 70's I can say that all of us were so excited to have our first banner of a NBA championship hangin from the rafters.DJ was the foundation of the team that led us to the championship.We were very close to winning 2 in a row. Dennis was one of my favorite players. I really appreciated his tenacious defense he put on guy's , he could put it on the best and back down from no-one. Beyond the the player on the court one of the things I appreciated the most is that you never heard bad things about DJ. He was a good man and a good citeZen. I didn't know him personally , but thank him for the memories. I wish his family the best.

Jerome Williams

January 9, 2008

Dennis Johnson was my idol. Playing High School Basketball, I patterned my game after his. I remember going to Madison Square Garden to see the Sonics play the Knicks after they won the World Championship. I arrived eary and stood baseline as the players were going through pre-game warm ups. I was thrilled to get Dennis Johnson's autograph and several close up photos (which I still have to this day) After the game, I met DJ and waited with him outside the Garden while he was awaiting a cab. He was very nice and conversated with me like we were buddies. Unfortunately my camera did not work when I enlisted someone to take a photo of us. I named my first born after him, Dennis Jerome (DJ). Dennis Johnson passed away one week after my mother. Needless to say, how crushed I was up to that point and his passing made it worse as he was a special person in my life. Rest In Peace DJ.

orlo johnson

December 30, 2007

what an awesome player you were always a team player you will be remembered always

P. H. Wan

December 23, 2007

When he played in the Celtics, I was just a seven years old boy. He is one of the greatest players I've ever seen. I always felt excited when watching every teamwork made by him and Larry Bird on TV record. It's an art, really an art. Thank you, Dennis, I'll remember everything you made on the court.

Dean Johnson

December 21, 2007

To my family, we have lost one of our own.Dennis is now with Daddy and Mamma he flies amongst the stars where he is supposed to be,Stay strong, I Love you all!

Willie Lee Thomas Lanereaux

December 8, 2007

You will be miss our love Pamela , Tronvika and Mayola and Willie

mel casino

December 4, 2007

Dennis was a great basketball player. He was Mr.clutch. I lost my voice from screaming when larry stole the ball and pass it to Dj and made the shot against the pistons..

Ralph Williams

December 2, 2007

Thinking about the goodtimes we had at Dominguez Sr Hi, I'm glad I had a chance to know you.

Donna Johnson

December 1, 2007

From the Family of Dennis Johnson, We are blessed and thankful for all the kind words that friends, family and of course fans have expressed to our family. On behalf of our family we thank-you for your prayers and kind words at this time, and especially during the holiday season. God Bless to you all and Happy Holidays. Our Family has set up a tribute and memorial site for family, friends and fans at the following site: http://dennis.johnson.muchloved.com
God Bless
Donna Johnson (Dennis's Widow)

John McLaughlin

November 26, 2007

I went to your retirement party the day you lifted your number high into the rafters. And i remember the smile you had, i will never forget that day.

Kevin Hadden

November 24, 2007

I was in high school when DJ was playing in the pro's. We lost a good rolemodel.

Russ Cobleigh

November 17, 2007

I saw DJ hit a buzzer beater against the Lakers in the Forum in Los Angelas, He was at his best under pressure and I will always admire him for that.

Don Zollo

November 11, 2007

One of the truly underated players of all time and an all around likable guy. You will be missed DJ. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Loved watching your bullet passes to Larry and of course watching Larry steal the ball and you hitting the big shot or as Johnny Most said "......And now there is a steal by Bird underneath to DJ, DJ lays it up and in! Bird stole the ball and got it to DJ at the buzzer!!!!!My God this place is going crazy!!!
You'll be missed.

mike murphy

November 10, 2007

Larry said D.J. was the best. That's good enough for me. Thank you D.J.

Russ Peterson

November 4, 2007

DJ we will miss you greatly you have always been my favorites player for the celtics for ever we will miss you my thoughts and prayers go out to your family thanks for all the memories

L.J. Vickers

November 1, 2007

52!!! This young man brought quite a bit of excitment to the floor and though I could not stand the Celtics (back in the day!!) I loved it when he'd lick his finger tips to prepare to get into his opponents head! This is a shock! My best to his family, friends and the Bean...

STEVE WILLIAMS

October 28, 2007

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

timothy fahey

October 18, 2007

I want to take this opportunity to pass my condolences on to DJ's family. Dennis was the core of these championship teams, and every night he was given the responsibity to play defense at the highest level and deliver the ball to larry and kevin. DJ did everything quietly, and upon his death he was doing things for his team in Austin. He was developing young men for the next level. DJ will be missed and should never be forgotten by the Boston Celtics!! I can hear the chant DJ DJ DJ !!!

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Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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February 27, 2025

Donna posted to the memorial.

July 20, 2024

Steven A Connelly posted to the memorial.

February 24, 2024

Donna posted to the memorial.