How Did Big Jeff Die? Watts League Legendary Commissioner Dead After Thanksgiving

Not much information has been released about the death of Watts League Commissioner Jeff Johnson, best known as Big Jeff. As the commissioner of a local basketball league, he was a beloved staple in the Washington, D.C. community.

Hip Hop Vibe was the first news outlet to confirm his death. A cause of death was not revealed. “This is sad news that has taken many by surprise. But, everyone has acknowledged that Big Jeff is moving on to a much better place than this,” the publication wrote Friday.

Big Jeff was active on social media hours before his death. He posted to Instagram and Twitter on Thanksgiving.

“Family and friends on thanksgiving day. #football #food #sittingatthebar #drinks,” he captioned an Instagram photo Friday. The next morning, the comment section was inundated with “rest in peace” comments.

“This one right here really hurts so bad. RIP Big Jeff you will be missed,” one person wrote. “Rest up big homie,” another added.

On Twitter, it appears he ran the Watts League account, where he would also share his Instagram pictures.

“RIP Big Jeff” was a top-trending Twitter topic Friday. Big Jeff trend had more than 1,000 mentions as fans mourned his tragic death.

RIP a Seat Pleasant Legend and family of Team Durant Big Jeff prayers and condolences to his family and @Wattsleague pic.twitter.com/YSPw1ZHfsJ
— Team Durant (@teamdurantaau) November 25, 2016