Dennis "Dj" Neil Carmickle Jr.

Dennis Neil Carmickle, Jr., affectionately known to all as DJ, completed his time here on Earth on September 23, 2026, in Columbia, SC. Born in Escondido, California, on September 30, 1977, DJ lived a life rich in passion, flavor, an unwavering love for his family, and just a bit of geekiness on the side.

To DJ, his greatest legacy and proudest achievement was being a father. He poured his heart into his six children: Baylee, Riley, Nova, and Anakin of Charles Town, WV, and Elianna and Emma of Shepherdstown, WV. He loved them fiercely and raised them with the kind of fun, chaotic energy that only a true nerd at heart could pull off, always making sure sarcasm was thrown in for good measure.

Professionally, DJ was a talented technology professional who took great pride in his work. He worked for Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina as a ServiceNow Platform Architect, where he brought his technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and unmistakable passion for all things technology to his career. His love of technology was a natural reflection of the curious, analytical, and wonderfully geeky person he was.

A self-certified foodie and bourbon enthusiast, DJ believed that life was too short for bad meals and cheap whiskey. His perfect night in involved a perfectly seared steak, a glass of bourbon or an Old Fashioned cocktail, and forcefully debating why the original Star Wars trilogy was far superior to Episodes I, II, and III. He lived life with a full plate and a full glass, always ready to share a laugh or an overly detailed summary of his newest book or movie obsession.

DJ is survived by his beloved children; his parents, Tammy and Jake Lewis of Martinsburg, WV, and Dennis Carmickle of Fresno, CA; his sister, Mary Thompson and her husband, Patrick, of Berryville, VA; his brother, Tyler Lewis and his wife, Brandy, of Inwood, WV; and his sisters, Draylin Lewis of Martinsburg and Kambrea Lewis of Myrtle Beach, SC. He also leaves behind a close cousin, Jody Bennett; nephews Joshua and Benjamin Thompson; and extended family and friends who will miss his boisterous personality, quick wit, and generous spirit.

He was preceded in death by his father, Loyd McBride; his brother, Michael Carmickle; and his niece, Addison Thompson.

In his memory, the family asks that you raise a glass in his honor. Services will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the American Heart Association and the American Cancer Society.