Jayshawn's Life Was Taken Too Soon

Please Help Us Lay Our Son Jayshawn to Rest

Early Tuesday morning, our world was shattered. Our 17-year-old son, Jayshawn Cornelius, was senselessly taken from us in a shooting that occurred while he was inside our home in Westwood. Someone fired fourteen shots from outside, and our baby was struck multiple times. He did not survive. Jayshawn was an innocent victim, and our family is completely devastated and blindsided by his murder. We were not prepared—emotionally or financially—for the sudden cost associated with laying our son to rest.

Jayshawn was a student at Hughes STEM High School. He was a bright, motivated young man who loved school, loved cars, and dreamed of becoming a mechanic after graduation. He helped care for his three younger brothers and had an incredible impact on their lives. He was full of life, had so much potential, and was deeply loved by everyone who knew him. He wasn’t just our son—he was a big brother, a friend, and someone who could light up a room with his smile.

Jayshawn was cherished by both his father and me, and by all of our extended family. He was raised with love from every direction, and that love still surrounds him now. We are heartbroken beyond words.

We’re asking for your help to cover Jayshawn's funeral expenses and other related costs. No mother should ever have to go through this. Any support you can offer—whether through a donation, sharing this page, or keeping us in your prayers—is deeply appreciated.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for standing with us during this heartbreaking time.

With love,

Brittany Garrett (Jayshawn’s mom)