DJ Park Cause Of Death And Obituary: What Happened To South Carolina Lineman?
DJ Park, a former South Carolina lineman who played for the Gamecocks and the Toronto Argonauts, died on March 2, 2024, at the age of 29. His death was announced by his sister, Breana Park, on Facebook, and confirmed by his former coaches and teammates. His cause of death was not disclosed, but he had been suffering from health issues in the past few months.
A Promising Football Career Cut Short
DJ Park, whose full name was Joseph Park, was born on June 5, 1994, in Dillon, South Carolina. He attended Dillon High School, where he was a star football player. He played both offensive and defensive line, and helped his team win three state championships. He was also a four-star recruit and one of the top offensive tackles in the nation, according to 247Sports.
Park enrolled at the University of South Carolina in January 2013, and joined the Gamecocks football team under head coach Steve Spurrier. He redshirted his first year, and played in four games in his second year. He became a regular contributor in his third year, playing in all 12 games and starting six at right tackle. He continued to play in every game in his fourth and fifth years, switching between right tackle, left tackle, and left guard. He earned the respect of his coaches and teammates for his versatility, work ethic, and positive attitude.
He graduated from South Carolina in 2017 with a degree in criminal justice. He was praised by his offensive line coach, Shawn Elliott, who said, “DJ was an awesome individual with a huge heart.”
Park pursued a professional career in football after leaving South Carolina. He signed with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League in 2018, but he was released before the season started. He did not play for any other team after that.
Cause Of Death And Obituary
| Name | Joseph Park |
|---|---|
| Nickname | DJ |
| Date of Birth | June 5, 1994 |
| Date of Death | March 2, 2024 |
| Age | 29 |
| Hometown | Dillon, South Carolina |
| High School | Dillon High School |
| College | University of South Carolina |
| Degree | Criminal Justice |
| Position | Offensive Lineman |
| Teams | Dillon Wildcats, South Carolina Gamecocks, Toronto Argonauts |
| Awards and Honors | All-state, Shrine Bowl, Semper Fidelis All-American, Four-star recruit |
| Family | Parents (names not disclosed), Sister (Breana Park) |
What Happened To South Carolina Lineman?
DJ Park had been dealing with health issues in the months leading up to his death, according to his sister, Breana Park. She did not specify the nature of his condition, but she said he had been hospitalized several times. On March 2, 2024, she announced on Facebook that he had passed away. She wrote, “To KNOW DJ/Joseph Park was to LOVE him. I could write a novel but I’ll just leave it at that for now. I’ll miss you forever but at least you can rest easy now.”
His death was met with an outpouring of grief and condolences from the football community and beyond. Many of his former coaches, teammates, and opponents expressed their sorrow and shared their memories of him on social media. Some of the messages included:
- “Saddened to hear about the passing of former Gamecock OL DJ Park. DJ was an awesome individual with a huge heart. You will be missed my friend.” – Shawn Elliott, South Carolina passing game coordinator and former offensive line coach
- “Rest In Peace Park. You were a great teammate and even better person. Prayers up for your family.” – Hayden Hurst, former South Carolina tight end and current Atlanta Falcons player
- “Heartbroken to hear about the passing of DJ. He was a great player and an even better person. He always had a smile on his face and a positive outlook on life. He will be missed by many. Praying for his family and friends.” – Mason Zandi, former South Carolina offensive lineman and current high school coach
- “RIP Park. You were a tough competitor and a class act. You represented the Gamecocks with pride and dignity. Praying for peace and comfort for your loved ones.” – Deshaun Watson, former Clemson quarterback and current Houston Texans player
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A Legacy of Love and Inspiration
DJ Park was more than just a football player. He was a beloved son, brother, friend, and role model. He touched the lives of many people with his talent, dedication, and positivity. He inspired others to pursue their dreams and overcome their challenges. He left behind a legacy of love and inspiration that will not be forgotten.
