Delbert "DJ" Howard Knox Jr.

Delbert "DJ" Knox, Jr., 68, passed away May 7, 2026 at St. Anthony Healthcare in Lafayette. DJ was born September 2, 1957 to the late Delbert Sr and Ethel (McNulty) Knox in Crawfordsville. He was a 1977 graduate of South Montgomery and later attended Olivet Nazarene University. He worked a variety of jobs, including a long career as a hotel receptionist, where his friendly personality, humor and stubborn charm left lasting impressions on many.

Though he never married or had children of his own, DJ devoted his life to the people he loved most - his family. He is survived by his niece, Melanie Brown (Andrew) and nephew, Steven Mahoy (Megan); and his great-niece, Maddie, brought him endless joy. Family gatherings and simply being together were among the greatest treasures of his life.

DJ loved to cook. He especially enjoyed trying recipes from Paula Deen and was thrilled to once travel to her restaurant, an experience he called "the trip of a lifetime." He was also known to help people, often giving them a place to stay while they got back on their feet or had nowhere else to go. More than anything, DJ will be remembered for being unapologetically himself - funny, opinionated, and impossible to forget.

He was also preceded in death by his beloved older sister, Denise; 2 infant siblings -Steven Wesley and Lisa Ann; grandparents; and many aunts and uncles.

A memorial service will be held May 23 at Crossroads Community Church of the Nazarene. Visitation will be 2-3 PM, with service to follow at 3 PM, officiated by DJ's cousin, Pastor Rich Stadler. Interment will follow at Indian Creek Hill Cemetery. Sanders Funeral Care is entrusted with his arrangements. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial contributions be made to Trinity Life Ministry.

The family requests those attending please wear purple, DJ's favorite color. They'd also like to thank the staff at Glasswater Creek Lafayette, University Place, and St. Anthony for the compassionate care and support provided. Share memories and condolences at www.SandersFuneralCare.com.