Ray Dejon, a beloved Brooklyn native, host, comedian, and motivational speaker, passed away on July 12, 2025. Known for his vibrant personality and deep commitment to community and culture, Ray’s passing marks the end of an era for the entertainment world and the people of Brooklyn. His legacy of laughter, inspiration, and service will continue to impact lives for years to come.
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What Happened to Ray Dejon?
Ray Dejon died on July 12, 2025, leaving the Brooklyn community and the entertainment industry in mourning. While the circumstances surrounding his passing have not been publicly disclosed, the outpouring of grief and love from fans, colleagues, and friends highlights the deep impact he had on everyone he encountered. His death leaves behind a void that will be difficult to fill.
Who Was Ray Dejon?
Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Ray Dejon was a proud graduate of Erasmus Hall High School and The College for Human Services. He blended formal education with lived experience, becoming a unique and influential voice in both entertainment and community engagement. Ray was known for his realness, street smarts, and an unwavering passion for empowering others.
Ray Dejon’s Career in Entertainment
Ray’s career began in stand-up comedy and television hosting, where he quickly made a name for himself. He was one of the original hosts of Dance Traxx USA, a show that captured the energy of urban music and dance culture in the late 1990s and early 2000s. He later gained further acclaim as a longtime host of Video Music Box, where his charisma and authentic interviewing style helped spotlight artists like Stevie Wonder, Alicia Keys, Kevin Hart, and Carmelo Anthony.
His Entrepreneurial Vision and Community Leadership
Beyond the spotlight, Ray was a visionary entrepreneur. In 2001, he founded Dejon Entertainment LLC and launched the innovative Stand-Up Comedy @ The Movies national tour, which blended cinematic experiences with live comedy. He also made history by opening Lafaholix Comedy Club, the first Black-owned comedy club in Brooklyn. This venue became a vital cultural hub, giving a platform to emerging comedians and underserved voices. Ray also organized major live shows at Resorts World Casino in Queens, where he brought acts like Boyz II Men, Sinbad, and Tamar Braxton to the stage, always striving to combine comedy, music, and culture.
Tributes and Public Reaction
Ray’s passing has sparked an overwhelming response from his community and the entertainment world. Friends, family, and fans have taken to social media to share heartfelt tributes. One friend wrote, “I am truly saddened to hear and confirm the passing of my brother from the hood and one of the original hosts of Dance Traxx USA… RIP Funman… Ray Dejon.” These messages reflect the profound influence Ray had, both on and off stage.
Family Statement and Memorial Plans
The Dejon family has requested privacy during this difficult time. Plans for a memorial service are currently in progress, with further details to be announced soon. In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to local charities that focus on youth empowerment and community outreach—causes that Ray championed throughout his life.
Remembering Ray Dejon’s Lasting Legacy
Ray Dejon was more than just a performer—he was a cultural connector and a community leader. His humor, authenticity, and dedication to making the world a better place have left a lasting impression. Through his work, Ray built bridges between generations, brought laughter to countless people, and created spaces where voices from all walks of life could be heard.
Final Thoughts
Ray Dejon’s passing is a tremendous loss, but his legacy lives on. Brooklyn, and indeed the entire entertainment community, will never forget the man who used his platform to uplift, inspire, and entertain. Rest in peace, Ray Dejon. Your voice, your vision, and your impact will continue to echo in the hearts of all who knew you.