De’Shawn Dowdy, better known as DJ, Deej, or Dowdy, was a man who touched many lives. His dedication to football, his family, and his community set him apart as both an athlete and a coach. This guide provides a closer look at his life, legacy, and impact.
Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | De’Shawn Javontae Dowdy |
| Nicknames | DJ, Deej, Dowdy |
| Date of Birth | April 24, 1994 |
| Place of Birth | Akron, Ohio |
| Date of Passing | February 2, 2024 |
| Age at Passing | 30 |
| Parents | Ineka Thomas (Mother), Winford Dowdy Sr. (Father) |
| Siblings | Daja Nique Thomas, Winford Jr., Kiyra, KaTeria, Darshawn, Sirshawna Dowdy, Step-siblings: Jasmine and Daniel Watts |
| Spouse | Nia Dowdy |
| Children | Kaden Maurice Dowdy, Kendrix Jace Dowdy |
| Education | North High School (Akron), University of Cincinnati (Bachelor’s in Sports Administration) |
| Football Career | University of Cincinnati football team (redshirt freshman), Full scholarship recipient |
| Coaching Career | Head Varsity Football Coach at Purcell Marian High School (2020-2022), Director of Athletics at Purcell Marian High School (2019-2022) |
| Coaching Record | 17-14 |
| Athletic Director | Assistant Athletic Director (2018), Director of Athletics (2019) at Purcell Marian High School |
| Notable Achievements | Helped 12 players earn football scholarships, Known for being a mentor and role model, Promoted leadership and development in youth sports |
| Legacy | Mentorship, Community involvement, Football coaching career, Education in sports, Strong family bonds, Deep impact on athletes and community |
| Preceded in Death | K Shawn Dowdy (Younger brother), Mabel Howard & Hattie Langdon (Grandmothers) |
| Survived By | Wife Nia, Sons Kaden and Kendrix, Parents Ineka Thomas and Winford Dowdy Sr., Siblings, Extended family, and Friends |
| Hobbies/Interests | Football coaching, Mentoring youth, Sports administration, Family time |
| Cause of Death | Unknown |
DE’SHAWN DOWDY “DJ” Early Life and Family Background
De’Shawn was born on April 24, 1994, in Akron, Ohio. He was raised by his mother, Ineka Thomas, and father, Winford Dowdy Sr. From a young age, he had a love for sports, especially football. His family supported his passion, and it shaped his future.
DJ grew up in a close-knit family environment, where values like hard work, discipline, and loyalty were instilled in him. His parents and siblings played a significant role in his life, offering guidance and encouragement throughout his journey. He always appreciated their unwavering support.
DE’SHAWN DOWDY “DJ” Education and Athletic Achievements
DJ attended Akron Public Schools, where he excelled in both academics and athletics. At North High School in Akron, his athletic abilities shone through. He was a standout football player, earning recognition from multiple colleges for his talents.
His success in high school football paved the way for his future. DJ was not only known for his athletic prowess but also for his academic achievements. He balanced his studies with sports, excelling in both areas and earning a spot on the University of Cincinnati football team.
DE’SHAWN DOWDY “DJ” College Football Career and Degree
DJ played football at the University of Cincinnati, where he earned a full scholarship. His journey as a college athlete began as a redshirt freshman, which allowed him an extra year of eligibility to play. This was a crucial year for DJ’s development.
While excelling on the field, DJ also focused on his education. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Administration from the University of Cincinnati in 2015. This degree provided him with the knowledge he would later use in his career in education and athletics.
DE’SHAWN DOWDY “DJ” Career in Education and Athletics
After graduation, DJ began his career in education, starting at Depaul Cristo. His work there was just the beginning of his long-lasting impact in the field. His love for sports was evident in every role he took on, as he mentored students and athletes alike.
In 2017, DJ moved to Purcell Marian High School, where he quickly became a key figure in the athletic department. He was first hired as the Interim Athletic Director before becoming the Assistant Athletic Director and later the Director of Athletics. His leadership was crucial to the school’s athletic success.
DE’SHAWN DOWDY “DJ” Net Worth
Though DJ’s exact net worth is approximately, $750,000, his career achievements suggest he was financially successful. His positions at Purcell Marian High School, including his role as Athletic Director, would have provided him with financial stability.
Beyond his salary, DJ’s legacy was built on his ability to inspire and mentor others. His financial success was secondary to the impact he had on the lives of those around him, especially the athletes he coached.
DE’SHAWN DOWDY “DJ” Coaching Career and Legacy
DJ’s coaching career was one of the highlights of his life. He became the Head Varsity Football Coach at Purcell Marian High School in 2020. In his two years as coach, DJ led the team to a 17-14 record, with many players earning college scholarships.
His coaching was about more than just football. DJ was a mentor, teaching his players valuable life skills. His legacy as a coach lives on through the athletes he helped, and the lessons he imparted will stay with them for years to come.
DE’SHAWN DOWDY “DJ” Preceded in Death by Loved Ones
DJ’s life was not without tragedy. He was preceded in death by his younger brother, K Shawn Dowdy, who was a significant loss for him. His grief was deep, but he continued to honor his brother’s memory throughout his life.
In addition to his brother, DJ mourned the loss of his grandmothers, Mabel Howard and Hattie Langdon. These losses were painful, but DJ’s strength allowed him to continue moving forward, while always cherishing the memories of his loved ones.
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DE’SHAWN DOWDY “DJ” Surviving Family Members and Loved Ones
De’Shawn is survived by a loving family who continues to honor his memory. He leaves behind his wife, Nia, and their two sons, Kaden Maurice Dowdy and Kendrix Jace Dowdy. His parents, Ineka Thomas and Winford Dowdy Sr., also survive him.
DJ’s siblings, including Daja Nique Thomas and Winford Jr., are part of the family that carries on his legacy. His step-siblings, Jasmine and Daniel Watts, along with many other relatives, continue to remember him with love and affection.
A Loving and Impactful Legacy
DJ’s legacy extends far beyond his athletic achievements. He was a caring father, a passionate coach, and a mentor to many. His impact on his players, students, and family was immeasurable. He led by example, showing others how to live with purpose.
His contributions to high school football, particularly in developing athletes and helping them earn scholarships, are a testament to his dedication. DJ’s legacy is a powerful one, and his influence will be felt for many years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did DJ go to school?
DJ attended North High School in Akron, Ohio, and later graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in Sports Administration.
How long did DJ coach football at Purcell Marian High School?
DJ coached the Purcell Marian Cavaliers for two years, from 2020 to 2022.
What was DJ’s coaching record?
DJ had a coaching record of 17-14 during his time as Head Varsity Football Coach at Purcell Marian High School.
What was DJ’s role at Purcell Marian High School?
DJ served as the Director of Athletics and the Head Varsity Football Coach at Purcell Marian High School.
Did DJ help athletes earn scholarships?
Yes, DJ helped 12 players earn scholarships to play football at the collegiate level.
Conclusion
De’Shawn Dowdy’s life was one of passion, leadership, and service to others. As a football player, coach, and mentor, DJ’s impact was far-reaching. He inspired countless young athletes and guided them toward success both on and off the field. His legacy continues to live on through the many lives he touched. Though his passing is a deep loss, his memory and the lessons he shared will remain forever in the hearts of those who knew him.
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