My name is Khafre Jay. Marcelo Avilés was one of my best friends—and if you’re from the Bay Area, there’s a strong chance he was yours, too. Marcelo Avilés has passed away, and the Bay Area is mourning someone who mattered. Marcelo was the kind of friend people trusted—the kind of presence that made a city feel less cold. And for so many of us, this loss is personal.

This fundraiser exists for one reason: to support Marcelo’s mother, Linda Lucero, and his partner, Phoebe Stoeckel.

Every dollar raised will go directly to them to cover funeral costs and, if necessary, provide support while they deal with the impossible logistics that come after an unimaginable loss.

Marcelo’s impact wasn’t small. He helped shape San Francisco’s cultural landscape—he’s listed as Director of Programming at Yerba Buena Gardens Festival, a space that brings people together through free public performances and shared experiences. But if you knew him, you already understand: his real legacy is how he made people feel seen.

If you can give, give. If you can’t, share this. And if you loved Marcelo, leave a message—They deserve to see the breadth of what Marcelo meant to the world.