It’s difficult for me to put into words how I feel, especially online. Sharing the depth of this heartbreak isn't easy. Jeffrey brought so much light and joy into our lives. As his aunt, I carry countless beautiful memories that now offer some comfort as I try to cope with this pain.
From the time he was little, Jeff was fearless and full of spirit. I remember once when I was babysitting he had a timeout and just looked at me with a mischievous smile, laughing as if to say, “This is nothing, Tía!” I’d ask if he was ready to get up, and he’d simply shake his head, “No.” Moments like that still make me smile. I also remember rocking him to sleep and playing with my necklace charm, his eyes would follow it until they slowly closed. I’d get nervous, thinking I was hypnotizing him, and gently wake him up again, laughing. His mom used to tease me, saying, “What are you doing, hypnotizing the baby?”
As he grew, Jeff never stopped being curious and full of life. He loved helping his dad with handiwork and was already fixing things around the house at a young age. He and his brother Jonathan would take apart radios and electronics just to explore how they worked. I used to joke that no gadget was safe around them!
He loved playing ball at the park and celebrating life with his friends. He had such great style, always looking sharp. My nephew was not just handsome, he had a beautiful heart, too.
There was a time when he and his friends were in an accident. We were terrified, but by the grace of God, Jeff came out with only a scratch. We were so thankful to still have him with us.
When he decided to join the Army, my husband and I were proud to mentor him through the process. He studied hard and did exceptionally well on his ASVAB test. Watching him graduate from basic training at Fort Benning, surrounded by our family, was a moment I’ll never forget. His smile when he saw us there lit up the entire day.
He was later stationed in Germany, where he embraced the experience fully. He even shared stories about trying local foods during a deployment to the Philippines ever the adventurous soul.
When he returned to the States, he was so happy to be closer to home first in Washington State, then finally at Fort Drum. We stayed close. He would FaceTime me often, sometimes for hours, sharing stories, asking for advice, or just joking around. Even when we ran out of things to say, we’d stay on the call in comfortable silence, just enjoying the connection. I’d cook entire meals while on FaceTime with him, and we’d laugh and talk through it all.
Jeff was such a special person. I’ll miss hearing his voice, seeing his smile, and getting his calls. As his aunt, I always felt a deep responsibility to guide and support him, but the truth is, he made it easy because he truly was one of the best.
He had a way of making everyone feel at home. His house was always full of friends, celebrating, dancing, just being together. His heart was big, and he gave so much love.
He was very close to his parents. Whenever he came over, he’d request his favorite meals, and my sister and brother-in-law would happily cook for him. He knew how to make us feel special, too.
As a father, Jeff was devoted and loving. He would call to share how he was learning to cook for his kids using family recipes. I remember one time he called, so worried because his baby was sick while he was away he even called 911 from afar to get his child the care he needed. His love was deep and unwavering.
Jeffrey brought joy every time we gathered. He’d call me with a big smile and say, “Sion Tía, let me tell you…” and I knew a story or a joke was coming.
He once texted, “I got the recruiting!” he was so excited to be stationed closer to Brooklyn, a place he loved deeply. I was always so proud of him, and I never missed a chance to brag about his accomplishments.
In these last few months, I saw something new in him his light was shining even brighter. He was full of dreams and was chasing them with purpose. He found peace even in difficult times, and that peace brought joy to those around him. He graduated in May, had just taken a state test, and had so many plans for the future.
Jeffrey will always be loved and missed. I believe he’s now with the angels, watching over us with that same radiant smile. I hold onto the hope that we’ll meet again someday.
Rest in peace, my sweet nephew. ❤️🙏
Love,
Haydee
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