On February 21st, the day after his birthday, we lost our father, Raymond Fashona Jr., unexpectedly. He was a beloved father, Pop, husband, friend, son, brother, human. We are heartbroken.

Our dad was a fun guy- always down to tell a story or a joke to get people to laugh. He was really witty and funny and smart. We grew up with a man who loved to play games, tell stories, and "rest his eyes." He loved to read, write, and, in his later years, walk around the city he loved. He was a very low-key man, never making much of a fuss. Don't get me wrong, if he had an opinion about something- you'd know. Usually, though, he was just along for the ride. Happy to be part of it all.

There are no words to describe this loss. It's kind of ironic- not having the words for the man who always had the right word for everything. Under different circumstances, I probably would've sent this to him to proofread before I sent it out. That man could go to town on an essay with a red pen. He is the reason for my love of reading and appreciation of words. He wasn't a man of many, but he somehow always knew what to say. We will miss him more than words can convey.

Honoring his wishes, he will be cremated and we will be having a celebration of life at some point in the warmer future.

My father was a proud man- some might even say stubborn. Unfortunately, we don't have room here to be too proud to ask for help. In order to carry out our dad's wishes, we are humbly and graciously asking for assistance. We are grateful for any contribution or share.