We are reaching out with heavy hearts to share the loss of our beloved Vinny. Vinny was an amazing, kind person whose warmth and compassion touched everyone he met. The hole left in our lives by his passing is so deep that there is no way to fill it, but we are committed to respecting his memory and the happiness he brought into the world. Vinny was a sweet, caring, and deeply loved 16-year-old who had big dreams and hopes for the future. He was looking forward to turning 17 on December 27—the day we hope to gather for his service. Vinny was incredibly close with his cousins, Jayda and Alivaa, and shared a special bond with his younger sister, Adriana. He was surrounded by a huge, loving, and supportive family, including his father Neely, his mother Melissa, his stepmom Alexis, and so many others who are devastated by his passing. Vinny also maintained a large circle of friends who will always remember his kindness, humor, and the joy he brought into their lives. In his 16 years, Vinny overcame many hardships with strength and resilience. It feels so unfair that he is no longer here to face the world with us.

Just before this tragedy, Vinny and his mom were preparing to move into a new apartment, and he was about to start his winter term at Portland Community College. Now, the family is struggling to handle even the day-to-day tasks as they grieve. The costs of his service, the move, and the loss of work have made this time even more difficult. We want to make sure that all of Vinny’s loved ones can come together to honor his memory and say goodbye. Any assistance—whether financial or simply sharing a kind word—means the world to us as we try to keep going and support each other through this unimaginable loss.

Thank you for your kindness, your support, and for keeping Vinny, his family, and his friends in your thoughts. Your generosity will help us honor Vinny’s life and give us the strength to face the days ahead.