The Chicago baseball community mourns the death of Deion Cozart, a cherished member of the Blue Island Men’s Baseball League and a true northside legend.
Highlights
- Deion Cozart’s passing has sparked an outpouring of tributes from friends, teammates, and the Chicago baseball community, highlighting his lasting impact.
- Cozart was remembered for his ability to unite people, mentor younger athletes, and truly embody the philosophy of living life to the fullest.
- His loss has inspired important conversations about community support, mental wellness, and the need for stronger bonds among friends and teammates.
Known affectionately as the “Tuna King,” Cozart left an indelible mark on everyone who crossed his path in the Chicago men’s baseball community.
Cozart’s journey in baseball began during his high school years at Lakeview High School, where he graduated in 2008.
He served as the lead pitcher for his school team, showcasing his natural talent and dedication to the sport.
Following his high school career, Cozart pursued higher education at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff from July 2009 to June 2011, further developing his athletic abilities.
Deion Cozart’s Passing Sparks an Outpouring of Tributes
The news of Cozart’s passing on February 12, 2025, has sparked an outpouring of grief and memories across social media, particularly on Facebook, where friends, teammates, and community members share their stories of his impact.
The Blue Island Men’s Baseball League posted a heartfelt tribute, acknowledging his significant influence on the Chicago men’s baseball community and reminding everyone to cherish their time with loved ones.
Our hearts go out to the friends, family and teammates of Deion Cozart. By All accounts he was a player who made a huge impression to all who knew him around The Chicago Mens baseball community. Let’s hold our friends, family and teamates closer. Were not promised another Sunday 😔. On behalf of the Blue Island mens baseball community Rest in Power brother
Facebook
Friends remember Cozart as someone who truly embodied the philosophy of living life to its fullest.
Wan Smith, a close friend, emphasized this aspect of Cozart’s character, stating,
Damn man life is crazy asf we was just out kicking it but if y’all didn’t know he was most definitely the definition of live your life to the fullest you just had to be there 🙏🏾 for the family R.I.H my brother Deion Cozart 🙏🏾🕊️❤️
Facebook
This sentiment echoes throughout numerous tributes posted by those who knew him.
Teammate Andre Harvey shared how Cozart had recently joined their team after years of recruitment, making his sudden passing even more difficult to process.
Friends recall recent conversations about upcoming games and betting tips, highlighting the everyday moments that made Cozart special to so many.
His impact on the youth in his community was particularly noteworthy.
Mino Cantoo remembered meeting Cozart at age 13 and developing a lasting friendship that spanned both baseball and basketball.
Jarrett Byrd recalled how Cozart, despite being older, never treated younger players as outsiders, instead ensuring they felt included in both sports and social activities.
The Chicago baseball community particularly remembers Cozart for his ability to unite people across different backgrounds.
Vernon D Weaver noted how Cozart demonstrated that sports could bring an entire city together, transcending racial and social boundaries.
His presence at the Loyola Park, his performances at the Promontory, and his leadership on various teams created lasting memories for countless individuals.
Brandon Sargent shared touching memories of daily gaming sessions that began when they were 11 years old and continued for a decade.
Their friendship evolved to include regular calls discussing sports, with plans for future meetups that will now remain unfulfilled.
In response to this loss, community members like Dee Rel have emphasized the importance of solidarity among Black men, calling for increased support and regular check-ins regarding health, finances, and mental wellness.
This tragic loss has sparked important conversations about community support and the significance of maintaining strong bonds.
Cozart’s legacy lives on through the countless lives he touched in Chicago’s sports community.
The “Tuna King” may have left the field, but his impact on Chicago’s baseball community will continue to resonate for years to come.
Additional Information
- He was known for his skills in multiple sports – not just baseball, but was also a varsity basketball player at Lake View High School.
