Darrien Justin Clardy

Darrien Justin "DJ" Clardy has left an indelible mark on the world. Born January 25, 2013 in Orange, California, DJ's journey was filled with strength, resilience, and an unwavering spirit. It is believed DJ had more superpowers than Spiderman! His adventure is one of remarkable resilience having undergone five open-heart surgeries by the tender age of three. His medical journeys only strengthened him, emphasizing his superhero nature. It was when he received a second chance at life through a heart transplant that he truly cherished every beat of his new heart—an immeasurable gift that bestowed upon him the power to live life to its absolute fullest.

DJ was a happy kid with an infectious smile. He had a great passion for the people closest to him, especially his mom and dad. He made sure they were always near, creating memories that will now be forever cherished. He loved playing PS4 and games on his mom's phone, loved watching YouTube, and really loved making TikToks with his sisters. And let's not forget- there was something special about receiving "noogs" from his dad! But the story of DJ would not be complete without his blue cup. Wherever DJ was, you would always find love, happiness ...and his blue cup!

DJ will be remembered by his parents, Royce Clardy and Nicole Carter; siblings, Aaliyah Carter, Alexis Carter, Kahni Clardy, Ky-Liyah Clardy, and Noah Clardy; paternal grandparents Anita Zachary and Kenneth Mooring; Uncle Devon London, Aunt Noelle Tyler, and Cousin Aniya West. He is also survived by several great aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.

In Heaven he will meet again his grandmother, Lydia Tyler; great-grandfathers, Clint Mooring and Gilbert Ramirez; as well as his uncles, Gilbert Ramirez, Doug Fiondella, and Wendall Baird.

Special thanks to Childrens Medical Center Dallas, Kent Moore Cabinets, Robert Neal Elementary School, Kristy Delva, Miss Priscella, Miss Sanchez, Miss Ontiberos, Anita Zachary, and Chooquiana Thomas.

DJ's presence in our lives may have gone too quickly, but the impact he made was immense. His smile, strength, and unwavering love captured the hearts of all who knew him. Though we mourn the loss of this extraordinary young superhero, we also celebrate a life that embodied hope, bravery, and an unyielding spirit. DJ has inspired us all to be real-life heroes!