It’s great that you have some IT experience, that usually helps more than either a degree or certifications in isolation. The way I look at is is experience > certifications > degree. That being said, it will depend on the job/organization. Some positions will require a degree (sometimes any degree) to get through the HR filter. Less organizations are requiring this which is great.
If you’re not interested in getting a degree, I would focus on certifications. You can absolutely get an entry-level position with just IT experience and certs.
My advice would be to look at the requirements for 8+ jobs you’re interested in and make a weighted list of the certifications they’re asking for. Use that this to prioritize which ones you pursue.
This post may be what they were referring to. There is at least one highly upvoted comment saying no one died, and several saying it was a western fabrication.