Donald "DJ" Joseph Braddock

Donald Joseph Braddock, better known as “DJ”, passed away unexpectedly on May 13, 2023. Just like he used to drive his race cars, he left us way to fast. We are deeply saddened by his sudden death, and he will truly be missed.

DJ was born, April 4, 1961, in Loiret, France, where his parents were stationed. He is survived by his brother; Clark. Daughter; Ciji (Tony). Niece; Lori Ann. Nephew; John. Grandchildren; Nevaeh, Kenneth, Alexis, Tony, Michela, Kylee. His baby doll, love of his life and partner in life; Pam Jarrell Webb. His extended Jarrell and Self family, which includes two of his favorite little buddies, Tripp and Tucker. As well as many lifelong friends that he considered his family and brothers. He joins his youngest daughter, Ashley, in heaven.

DJ had an enormous heart, his motto was “How can I help you?”. He wanted to help everyone in any way he could, sometimes to a fault. He always told his loved ones that he “has lived the life and accomplished so many things that most men could only dream of”. Always finishing with “I have no regrets”. He was full of stories and knowledge that he gained through all of his life experiences. DJ loved challenging himself, successfully competing in skate boarding, dirt bike racing, bowling, and shooting pool, to name a few. His greatest competitive love was Racing cars, he challenged himself to always finish 1st or to set highest lap time, which he often did, with pride in the cars his buddies and he built. DJ loved to tell great stories, including some of his most favorite memories made in his younger years with his brother & sister and later with his daughters who he loved so much. He also loved sharing stories of his camping trips, playing softball or going places with his close friends. He was an avid NASCAR, JAGUARS, GATORS, and Jumbo Shrimp fan. DJ started his career at a young age-working around the neighborhood, at the Midway drive in, then at the Bowling alley. Later, he made a career working for Kinco as a tool and die maker where he worked his way up thru ranks until they closed down. He went on to master other careers, including owning a Restaurant and Braddock Home Improvements, as well as a working as a machinist/builder at Dewitt Windows and Doors and AAA Screen, ending as a Construction Project Manager for Tri-Bridge and ACP. There was nothing that DJ couldn’t build or fix. He was proud of all that he had accomplished.

He will be remembered for his big heart that he shared with family and friends. He truly loved each and every one of them. He carried himself with integrity, dignity, honesty, and strength. He was full of love for those he has left behind and those who went before him. He will be missed dearly.

DJ told us, “When it is my time, Do not mourn, if anything Have a Party. Just a time to come together and celebrate”. That was DJ, selfless and humble. A celebration of life has been planned for June 10, 2023 from 4 – 7 at the Elks Club, 1855 West Road, Jacksonville, FL 32216.