Deric Dewayne Johnson was born June 28, 1970 in Kansas City, Missouri to George Jackson and Earlene Adams. His paternal grandfather, Andrew Parker; maternal grandparents, William and Roberta Phenix; and a brother, Marcus Johnson preceded him in death.

Deric accepted Christ at a young tender age. At forty-seven years old, he returned to his heavenly home on October 17, 2017 after a valiant battle with a long illness. His devotion to his family and his firm belief in God supported him in his struggle, ultimately giving him peace. He was kind, soft spoken and always had time to answer a question or solve a problem, no matter how big or small. He is dearly missed by his loved ones who celebrate.

Deric attended Ruskin High School in Grandview, Missouri, graduating in the class of 1988 with his main interest in Computer Programming. He went on to work for the City of KCMO for fifteen years as a service mechanic engineer. Deric had a love for building and restoring cars, and music installations. His hobbies included going to cars shows and traveling. He was a strong willed man who was adventurous and certainly lived life to the fullest.

He leaves to cherish his memory: his loving and devoted wife, Dr. Belinda Johnson; three children, Audreanna Tená Gerald, Deriyiah D'Shai Johnson, Deric D. Johnson II, and beloved children, Devaughn, Bobby, Jada and Creneisha; grandmother, Operee Iverson; nephews, Jathal L. Johnson, Marcus Johnson, Jr. (son of Shelita Cole), Shelton Cole and Sheree Cole; step-siblings, Shelita Cole and Tony Barnette; niece, Myale Renee Johnson; a host of uncles, aunts, other family and friends.