A grandparent’s and parent’s worst nightmare has come true. My 13-year-old granddaughter, Joylen, unexpectedly passed away on Thursday, January 29th, at 5:36 p.m.

It is with a very heavy heart that I share this with each one of you. My name is Javier, or “Papa” as my granddaughter would call me.

Tragically, my 13-year-old granddaughter, Joylen, passed away from an asthma attack at her flag football practice. She had an asthma attack during practice and fainted. They performed CPR, and she was rushed to the hospital where they did chest compressions. Unfortunately, she passed away. No grandparent or parent should bury their grandchild.

Joylen, who was my first grandchild, brightened our lives and filled our hearts with joy as her name suggests.

Joylen enjoyed playing basketball and flag football. She trained for the Spartan races, trained in jujitsu, and strength training. She was also part of the school band.

Joylen was an amazing, kind-hearted, God-loving, sweet child that was taken from us too soon. She had the heart of a servant. She volunteered countless hours serving her community and beyond. She had a bright future that was taken away too soon. At only 13 years old, she was full of life and had many future aspirations. Since the age of three, she wanted to be a Marine. In her short life, she was a warrior.

Joylen accepted Jesus Christ as her Lord and Savior. I noticed how she found favor in the eyes of Jesus even before she knew it, but I could see it. In her short life, Joylen became a warrior with a purpose for Jesus Christ.

I find peace knowing that Joylen is in the arms of our loving Lord. I feel comforted knowing she is with Jesus. In His presence, I’m sure she’s playing flag football or bringing joy to His day, just like she did every day here on Earth.

Joylen’s unexpected passing has created both an emotional and financial hardship for the family. As no parent expects to plan a funeral or burial service for their 13-year-old child.

Joylen is survived by her loving parents, Rebecca and Ken, her two younger siblings, Jernni and Zion, and me her Papa. Please keep the Mackey family and myself in your prayers.

We are raising funds to help cover funeral expenses and to support the family as they go through this incredibly difficult time. Help us reach our goal of $55,000.

Any contribution will help and allow the family to focus on grieving the loss of this precious young child and heal during this unexpected tragic loss. Please share this page and keeping the family in your thoughts and prayers. Thank you for your support.