Remembering Dennis James McDougle

We are sad to announce the passing of Dennis James McDougle, aka DJ.

Dennis will be fiercely remembered by friends and family who had the privilege and joy to know and love him. A celebration service will be held at 1:30 – 2:30 PM on 19 February 2023 in Mission Bay (location). Feel free to wear a hint of orange – DJ’s favorite color.

Dennis was the youngest son of JC (Junior Cecil) and Marjorie Lou McDougle, who are both deceased. DJ was a mama’s boy and he loved her very much. He is survived by his loving brothers:  KC, Michael, Gregory, Raymond, Scott, and Ryan and by his husband Edgardo Rivera and their sweet dog, Panda. He was very close to his family, and he especially adored his many nieces and nephews and relished in their accomplishments.

DJ’s love of music began as a toddler singing with his older brothers as part of a family singing group. In the 1980’s with dreams of becoming the next Wham! he co-created his own pop duo singing group called, Vince & Van Gogh. They released a studio album and toured performing to their 100’s of loyal fans. Hey, at least he got to sing with Patti LaBelle and dance onstage with Whitney Houston…which he got arrested for but that’s a story for another day. Dennis always had a smile and a song for everyone.

He was always up for any adventure of road tripping and travel, going to a dance club, parade, a theme park, a concert, seeing a movie, play or musical, going to the beach or enjoying nature. DJ was always the life of the party…all the while treasuring every precious moment with friends and family and creating a lifetime of memories for all of us.

DJ was a supporter of Stepping Stone as a committee member on The Recovery Ride and participated in many events. Here is where he met Edgardo and acquired another loving and supportive family in recovery. A memorial fund has been created to honor Dennis. Your contributions will help support those seeking recovery and a commemorative tile will be placed in the courtyard to honor and celebrate his memory.