Tragic Loss in Memphis: Community Mourns the Death of 18-Year-Old Cornelius “DJ” Otis Jr. Following Gun Violence
Memphis, TN – June 13, 2025 — A cloud of sorrow hangs over the city of Memphis as the community mourns the untimely death of Cornelius Dewayne Otis Jr., affectionately known as “DJ,” who was tragically taken from his family and friends as a result of gun violence on Saturday, June 7, 2025. He passed away the following day, Sunday, June 8.
Cornelius was the beloved son of Barbara and Cornelius Otis Sr., and a recent graduate of Kirby High School, Class of 2025. Born on January 2, 2007, he had just celebrated a monumental milestone—his high school graduation—a moment his family and loved ones had eagerly anticipated and proudly celebrated. Full of promise, passion, and purpose, DJ was preparing to step into adulthood with ambition and an open heart.
Now, instead of looking ahead to a bright future, the Otis family is planning a funeral. In the wake of this devastating tragedy, Cornelius’s aunties, Britney and Latrece, have come forward with broken hearts to honor his memory and to ask for support from their community.
“With heavy hearts, we’re creating this GoFundMe to help take some of the burden off his parents,” the family shared. “Cornelius was just 18 years old, full of life and dreams. He was a beacon of light, with a radiant smile and a spirit that lifted everyone he met.”
Friends and family remember Cornelius not only for his accomplishments but also for his kind, loving nature and the genuine connection he shared with others. Whether it was making someone laugh on a hard day or offering encouragement to a classmate, DJ left an impact that words can barely contain.
The pain of his loss is compounded by the senselessness of the violence that took his life. Gun violence continues to rip apart families and communities across the nation, and Cornelius’s death is yet another heartbreaking reminder of the work still needed to make our neighborhoods safe for every child, teen, and adult.
The Otis family is now calling on the greater Memphis community—and beyond—for help. A GoFundMe page has been created by Britney and Latrece to raise funds for funeral and burial expenses, in hopes of alleviating some of the financial and emotional burden during this traumatic time.
“No family should ever have to go through something like this,” they said. “Even if you cannot donate, sharing this message and lifting us in prayer means more than words can say. We are grateful for every bit of support.”
To support the Otis family, please visit the official GoFundMe campaign:
Honoring Cornelius “DJ” Otis Jr. – Memorial Fund
Cornelius’s death is not just a loss to his immediate family but to all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a brother, a son, a nephew, a friend, and a young man with dreams that should have had the chance to flourish.
As the community prepares to say goodbye, the Otis family is determined to celebrate his life in a way that reflects the love and light he brought into the world. They ask that people remember Cornelius not for the tragedy of his passing, but for the joy of his presence.
Rest in peace, DJ. Forever 18. Gone far too soon.