Dalton Joseph De'de', Jr.

Dalton Joseph Dédé, Jr. departed this earthly home on May 17, 2026 and entered into eternal rest with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ at the age of forty-five. He was preceded in death by his beloved grandparents Hubert and Shirley Dobard. He leaves to cherish his memory, his two young sons Harlem Emil Dédé and Israel Emir Dédé. He also leaves his loving and devoted mother, stepfather, and sister, Deirdra Dobard, Cedric Humphrey, and Tita Green.

DJ, as he was affectionately known by family and friends, was born in New Orleans, Louisiana on January 31, 1981. He was a sweet, loving, and special child who cherished and adored his family. During his early years, DJ was a member of Saint Gabriel The Archangel Catholic Church where he was baptized and served with pride as an alter boy. He attended Sara T. Reed High School and later left New Orleans for a change of pace and scenery. His big sister, residing in Atlanta, Georgia, welcomed him with open arms, and he moved in. And after spending some quality time living and learning in Georgia as a young man on a quest of becoming, DJ decided to return home to his roots. He loved all things NOLA from the music, to the food and festivals; and he derived great pleasure from participating in the cultural traditions and events that were unique to the city he loved. He was later presented with an opportunity to develop and hone skills that would help jump start and later advance his life and career, by joining JobCorp. It was then he made his way to Texas.

For the balance of his adult life, he lived, loved, and worked in various cities within Texas. At the time of his passing, he and his fiancee Ashley were residents of Fort Worth. DJ loved cooking and routinely sent videos to his sister of food he’d prepared. He always took pride in the preparation and presentation of his meals. Although he enjoyed his seafood and creole cuisine, he wasn’t afraid to depart from the norm. He began eating and preparing different Asian-style dishes, such as Korean kimchi. DJ loved his boys dearly, and enjoyed every moment spent together. From taking them on walks in the park, to teaching Harlem to ride a bike, and splashing around with them in swimming pools.

DJ was a beautiful soul, for whom life didn’t always come easy. However, he made the very best of it and found love and fulfillment along the way. He will be truly missed and remembered for his love of family, positive spirit, courage in the midst of storms, and his resilience in the face of adversity. May his soul rest peacefully in heaven, until we meet again.

“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” ~John 14:27