Delbert Edwin Johnson Jr.

Delbert was a proud member of the Blackwater community. He began his education at Blackwater Community School, later attending McCray Junior High in Coolidge. He played football for the Riverside Braves while attending Riverside Indian School in Oklahoma. Known for his strong work ethic and deep connection to the land, Delbert worked as a landscaper at Whirlwind Golf Course for more than 11 years, a job he was deeply proud of.

Delbert was a kind, loving, and respectful man with a big heart and a great sense of humor. Raised in the rodeo tradition by his father, he learned to ride steers at a young age and went on to become a team roper, always cherishing tribal riding and the cowboy life. He was someone people could count on, a good friend, a loyal brother, and above all, a devoted father. His children were the light of his life, and he cherished every moment with them.

He is survived by his children, Jazmine, Ethan, Zack and Kiara Johnson; his siblings, Shaylene Pablo of Sacaton Flats, Sandra Mills of Sacaton, Kaycee Antone of ChuChu, and Josephine Eddie and Shelba Johnson of Blackwater. He was preceded in death by his parents, Delbert Sr. and Reba, and his brother Andrew Eddie.

Delbert’s life was a gift to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered for his gentle spirit, his loyalty, and the love he gave so freely.