I am reaching out to everyone who knew, loved, and adored Rontonio, aka Tray Baby.

Rontonio was tragically gunned down on a night that was supposed to end with love, laughter, and continued connections. How a night filled with so much laughter and fun could end like this is truly unbelievable and forever unforgettable.

Moments like these stay with us forever. There is no way around them, under them, or over them—we simply have to find a way to get through them together. No, it wasn’t his time, and that is something we simply cannot be okay with. Losing someone is hard enough, but losing one of the good ones is a pain that words cannot fully describe.

I am asking for help from everyone who can contribute toward giving Rontonio the beautiful homegoing and send-off he deserves. He was truly one of the realest, kindest, and most genuine men to walk this earth.

My brother John has held our family down since 2001, when we lost our mother, and again in 2006, when we lost our father. No matter how busy he became or where his travels with The Chicago Bucket Boys took him, he always made time for our family. Being among the youngest of 12 children, we needed someone to step up, and John did exactly that. He became our guardian, helped take care of us, and has also been there for all of our children.

Now, during one of the most difficult times our family has faced, we are asking our family, friends, community, and everyone who loved Rontonio to help us give him the homegoing he deserves.

Your prayers and contributions toward Rontonio’s homegoing are deeply needed and appreciated. We cannot do this alone. Please give whatever your heart desires, and know that no amount is too small—a little truly goes a long way.

Thank you for every prayer, contribution, post, phone call, message, and expression of love. Our family is beyond grateful for it all.

Long Live Rontonio, aka Tray Baby. The last of 12 children! Mama and Dad’s baby

You will truly be missed, forever remembered, and unconditionally loved. Your memory will live on through everyone whose life you touched.

Rest peacefully, Tray Baby. Until we meet again. ❤️️