Meet TJ, a very special boy, gone too soon

Terrell Stephon Savage, Jr., passed away peacefully at Ochsner Medical Center on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, at the age of 13, surrounded by his loved ones. “TJ", as he was affectionately known to family and friends, was an 8th grade honor student at Harriet Tubman Charter School. He loved playing video games, creating content on social media, and exploring and learning about outer space.

A couple of weeks ago, TJ complained of severe stomach pain. He was admitted to the hospital and diagnosed with a relatively mild 2005 variant of coronavirus. But because of an underlying heart condition (which the doctors had been successfully managing for years), even this typically mild upper respiratory infection placed a tremendous strain on his already compromised body. Though he fought bravely, his condition quickly deteriorated, leaving him on a ventilator for the last week and a half of his life. His passing was as sudden as it was unexpected and devastating for all who loved him.

Though his time on this earth was far too short, TJ’s memory will remain strong in the hearts of all who knew him. He brought joy and kindness into the world, perhaps best symbolized by his favorite color—blue—which will forever remind his family of his gentle soul.

TJ leaves behind a large, loving family who adore and miss him terribly, including his dad, Terrell Stephon Savage, Sr., his mom, Destiny White, and his sisters, Milan (15) and Jewel (8). TJ's loved ones are in pain. The family’s loss is profound but so is the love they share with and for him.

Click here to view TJ's obituary .

A Thanksgiving Message from Ralph "Blue" Kidd, Co-Organizer

My name is Ralph and I’m here to help Ms. Erikka Hall organize and manage this fundraiser so TJ’s mom can focus on funeral arrangements and taking care of her daughters in this difficult time.

We are launching this fundraiser to help Destiny cover funeral costs, grief-related expenses, and the financial challenges that come with taking time away from work during a moment of profound grief.

TJ’s mother has shared with me that she is uncomfortable with the concept of crowdfunding something so personal as the loss of a child. She expressed concern that asking for financial assistance is somehow undignified and cheapens her son's memory. I recognize that she is reeling from the pain and shock of losing her son and has every right to grieve in her own way. That said, I respectfully advised her to remain open to receiving whatever help life brings her way. After all, there a many hidden costs that come with such an unexpected tragedy. She has gracefully agreed to allow me and Ms. Hall to step in to manage this process so she can focus on her family.

Your donation goes directly toward supporting Destiny, Milan and Jewel. If you cannot give financially, please consider taking a moment to share a link to this fundraiser on social media, text or email. This will give the fundraiser the best chance of reaching someone who is in a position to help out.

Thank you for supporting this special family in their hour of need.

How These Funds Will Be Used

All donations will go directly to TJ’s mother to help cover:

• Funeral and memorial service expenses

• Burial and transportation costs

• Time away from work during this period of grief

• Counseling and emotional support for the family

• Unexpected expenses that arise after the loss of a child

Your support eases a tremendous burden and is truly appreciated.

Other Forms of Contributions

Donations can also be sent to Destiny via Cash App to cashtag: $destiny20098

And Venmo: @destiny20098