Help Ira Lee Lay His Mother to Rest

Hello, my name is Mahlet Smith (formerly Mahlet Lee). I’m starting this fundraiser for my half-brother, Ira Lee, who is currently overseas and unable to be here during this heartbreaking time.

His mother, Chiyong Tucker, died by suicide on June 22, 2025, after a long struggle with mental health challenges. This tragedy is especially heavy for Ira — he has already lost several close friends and his grandmother to suicide, and now he is grieving the loss of both mother figures in his life.

Chiyong’s stepfather is doing his best to handle the funeral arrangements but is struggling to cover the full cost alone. The total cost for the ceremony and burial is $15,000, which must be paid in full by July 11th to hold the funeral as planned on July 15th.

We want to give Chiyong the peaceful, respectful farewell she deserves and help lift this burden from her family. Any contribution you can make will help us reach this goal and bring some peace to Ira and our family during this painful time.

Thank you so much for any support — whether it’s a donation or simply sharing this fundraiser with others.