Popular New York radio personality, DJ, photographer, and cherished community figure Dwayne “DJ Bandit” Jones, passed away recently at Montefiore Hospital in the Bronx.
Born at Fordham Hospital in The Bronx to Jamaican parents, the late Wilbert Morris Sr. and mother Ladoisha Jones-Morris, Dwayne was raised with a deep appreciation for Jamaican music, community, and technology. Dwayne spent over 20 years as a Desktop Support Analyst, working for Christiana Bank, Lehman Brothers, Credit Suisse First Boston, and Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney, PC. Yet it was behind the turntables—and later the radio microphone—where he truly made his mark. A self-taught DJ with an encyclopedic knowledge of music across all genres, DJ Bandit was more than a selector—he was a music mentor and tech guru to many.
Known for his selfless spirit, Bandit would often share music files, help fix DJ software setups, and troubleshoot computers for friends and colleagues.
“There’s nothing you could ask him about computers or music that he didn’t know,” said David ‘Fat Forward’ Warren, a fellow broadcaster at WB Radio in New Jersey, where Bandit hosted a Thursday evening reggae program from 6 to 9 p.m.
“He rarely missed a show. If he did, it was because of extraordinary circumstances,” Warren shared.
A proud member of the New York/ Jamaican diaspora media and entertainment fraternity, Bandit played at iconic venues such as veteran radio broadcaster Ken Williams’ Carib NY in Westchester as well as Mingles Café, and Wembley Athletics Club in the Bronx. He was a staple on radio stations including WVIP, 93.5 FM, Royal Radio, E2 Radio, Majestik Musik Radio, and WB Radio, where he entertained listeners with the best reggae, dancehall, soca, and R&B songs. Even after becoming a dialysis patient three years ago, his passion never waned. He played his final gig just two days before his passing.
“He was my brother-in-law, but also my friend,” said NY radio host Stacy Vickers, who shared many memories on-air with Bandit.
“He would always check on me before my radio shows, whether I asked for help or not. He affectionately called me ‘Majula,’ teasing me about my Indian roots. I will miss that.”
Radio host and fashionista Sherry Southe-Thyme recounted their friendship that dated back to the early 2000s.
“He was always there—sending me music, helping me choose gear, encouraging me. When I needed a new laptop, he offered to set it up for me. That’s just who he was,” Southe-Thyme added.
In recent years, Bandit became a trusted photographer in the community, capturing memorable moments at events like the Westchester Music Festival, Groovin’ In The Park, The Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival, Blue & Bougie, The Outside Lounge, and Soiree en Blanc.
“He had a gift,” said Southe-Thyme. “He knew the importance of preserving memories and did so without asking for anything in return.”
Westchester-based Kayon Morgan recalled how Bandit would playfully slap the back of her neck while greeting her with the expression, ‘Rasta Gal!’ But behind the humor was an unshakable will. “He taught me to never give up, no matter how tough life gets. He was a fighter.”
For Clive ‘Kali’ Drummond, President of the UTech Alumni Association NY, Bandit was the DJ of choice who played the music at his annual Glen Island Park Picnic/fundraiser with Taxman Shippy.
“His humility, kindness, and commitment to service were unmatched. A true professional,” he explained.
Team Jamaica Bickle founder and Immigration advocate Irwine Clare added, “Bandit treated people with consistent reverence and respect. He was a statesman among his peers.”
New York party promoter Sephon Mair, founder of the Signature Society, who worked alongside Bandit on numerous events, remembers New Year’s Eve 2025 as particularly magical.
“It was his best performance. Everyone felt it. It was also his last New Year’s Eve event,” he shared.
DJ Bandit was more than a DJ. He was a community pillar, a music archivist, a tech wizard, and a friend to many. His generosity, warmth, and passion for music will echo in the hearts of all who had the honor of knowing him. An event to celebrate his life was held at Mingles Ultra Cafe in the Bronx on Sunday, July 13. The event was attended by numerous friends, well-wishers, and industry insiders who came together for an amazing night that was had by all.
A graduate of Evander Childs High School, he later pursued an Associate’s Degree in Computer Science at Monroe University. To those closest to him, Bandit was family, both in blood and in spirit.
He is survived by his loving mother Ladoisha, wife Tara, beloved daughters Deadre and Janeane, granddaughter Alani, sister Marlene, and extended family. He was predeceased by his father and brother Wilbert Jr., affectionately known as “Pee Wee.” DJ Bandit was 60 years old at the time of his death. Funeral service for Bandit will be held on Sunday, July 27th, at the North Bronx Seventh Day Adventist Church in New York. Gone too soon.
