On January 13th, our uncle Henry Renteria passed away. To the world, he was our uncle, but to my brother James and me, he was so much more — he was our parent, protector, and home.

When we were taken from our biological parents and placed into foster care through Tulare County, he stepped in and raised us in kinship as his own. Growing up, we called him “Uncle Cecil,” but he was truly our saving grace and our foundation. He provided stability, love, and guidance during the most vulnerable time of our lives.

Uncle Cecil built a strong and loving community around us — people who accepted us as his children without hesitation. Because of him, we always knew what it felt like to be chosen, supported, and deeply loved. We will be forever grateful for the life and safety he gave us.

This fundraiser is to help cover the cost of his cremation and memorial service, and to support my brother, who lived with him. With Uncle Cecil’s passing, my brother must now learn to navigate life and support himself on his own for the first time. Any help will ease that transition and give him space to grieve and steady himself.

Any donation, share, or kind word is deeply appreciated. Thank you for helping us honor the life, love, and legacy of an incredible man who changed so many lives.