Comedian Ray DeJon has died just days before he was set to host a comedy roast in honor of his 64th birthday.
The NYC-based comic died at age 63 on Monday — just one day before his birthday. A cause of death is unknown.
In the days leading up to his untimely death, DeJon announced that he was holding a comedy roast at his Brooklyn comedy club, 275 Park Laffaholics, on July 16.
Aside from his work as a comedian and opening Brooklyn’s first black-owned comedy venue, the funnyman had also interviewed music icons like Stevie Wonder and Alicia Keys.
The comic’s death was announced by video director Ralph McDaniels, who on Monday shared a heartfelt message on social media.
“I am sad to announce the passing of our Video Music Box family @raydejon,” he wrote on Instagram. “My condolences to his entire family. Ray Dejon will be missed.”
DeJon’s heartbroken sister, Evelyn Delacruz, took to social media to share her shock at the comic’s sudden death.
“Thank you everyone for reaching out me and my siblings and his children and family just ask for privacy at this devastating time,” she wrote on Instagram.
“We will let everyone know when services will be held. We are all completely heartbroken. His birthday is tomorrow. Sleep in paradise my beautiful brother Ray DeJon Jr.”
In his final social media post, DeJon urged fans to buy tickets to his upcoming comedy gig.
In a video shared on Instagram with his 32,000 followers, the comedian said that while his birthday was on July 15, he wanted to celebrate the following day.
The roast, which was set to be hosted by R&B singer Jimmy Cozier, was due to feature performances from Kenny Woo, Brooklyn Mike, K. Smith and Stephanie Kay.
DeJon opened the club alongside Kwame Clarke and Rob Jones in January 2023.
“From hosting side-splitting stand-up nights to organizing memorable themed events, Ray Dejon has cultivated an environment where laughter is celebrated and cherished,” his profile read.
“His passion for comedy is contagious, creating an atmosphere where both performers and audiences feel right at home.”
Following the news of his death, fans and fellow stand-ups rushed to the comments section to pay their respects.
“Damn,” former boxing champ Shannon Briggs wrote. “So sad to hear this. Rest easy champ.”
“I have no words,” comedian Ayanna Dookie wrote. “Thank you for all the stage time and for putting so many of us on.”
The Comedy In Harlem fan page shared an emotional tribute to DeJon, saying, “New York City lost a true giant.”
“Ray DeJon wasn’t just a promoter — he was a connector of people, a champion of comedy, and a pillar in our community,” the page wrote. “To lose someone like Ray is to lose a heartbeat of this city. He was a great guy, a loyal friend, and a legend whose spirit can never be replaced.”
Meanwhile, comedian Vishnu Vaka said DeJon was one of the “kindest people” in the industry.
DeJon had previously survived a stroke and had overcome addiction, the Sun reports.
He had been open about his sobriety journey, revealing that his health battle left him paralyzed. He added that medication had helped him to regain movement in his limbs.
Aside from his comedy career, DeJon spent a lot of time helping young adults overcome substance abuse issues.
