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Portrait Gallery N-Z
Portraits
Since 1993 over 200 volunteer professional artists have donated their time and talent to paint more than 600 portraits of innocent victims of random violence across the country. Lost Dreams on Canvas preserves the memories of the children by capturing their lives on canvas. The portraits forever leave an imprint in our hearts and minds. The haunting faces of these children tell the story of the unfulfilled dreams and promise of their lost lives.
While the completed portraits are presented to the surviving families, portrait reproductions are mounted on modular display walls that travel around as the centerpiece for anti-violence programming.
Portrait Gallery
Marcus Yates.
Darren Norwood
Marcus Yates.
5 years old
1983-1988
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
On a summer day in 1988, five year old Marcus Yates was playing video games in a small corner grocery store near his grandmother’s home in Southwest Philadelphia. An argument broke out between two drug dealers and gunfire was exchanged. Marcus ran to his older brothe
5 years old
1983-1988
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
On a summer day in 1988, five year old Marcus Yates was playing video games in a small corner grocery store near his grandmother’s home in Southwest Philadelphia. An argument broke out between two drug dealers and gunfire was exchanged. Marcus ran to his older brother Tony for protection when a bullet ripped through his skull. While Marcus lay dying, Tony leaned over and stuck his fingers into the bullet wound to try to stop the bleeding. Marcus died in his Mother’s arms at the hospital, while his brother Malcolm, lay fighting for his life with 2 bullets lodged in his body.
His mother, Rochelle Yates, said “Coping doesn’t get any easier.” The Yates family continues to try to bring meaning to Marcus'’ tragic death. They travel around the city to speak against violence, using their story to effect change.
Terence Ryans
Darren Norwood
Marcus Yates.
1971-1990
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Barbara Katus
Lifetime friends and neighbors from Southwest Philadelphia, Terence Ryans and Darren Norwood were killed in a revenge attack intended for somebody else. The boys became friends when they were very young and were inseparable up to their deaths.
On a busy Saturday night in a University sho
1971-1990
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Barbara Katus
Lifetime friends and neighbors from Southwest Philadelphia, Terence Ryans and Darren Norwood were killed in a revenge attack intended for somebody else. The boys became friends when they were very young and were inseparable up to their deaths.
On a busy Saturday night in a University shopping area, Terence and his friend Darren were sitting in a parked car in West Philly after attending a movie nearby. Two young men approached the car from one side of the street while three other young men approached the car from the other side of the street. They converged on the car and opened up with automatic weapons and then sped away in a car. This was a senseless and tragic loss for two close families.
Darren Norwood
Darren Norwood
Deanna “Dee-Dee” Wright-McIntosh
1971-1990
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Barbara Katus
Lifetime friends and neighbors from Southwest Philadelphia,
Darren Norwood and Terence Ryans were killed in a revenge attack intended for somebody else. The boys became friends when they were very young and were inseparable up to their deaths.
On a busy Saturday night in a University sh
1971-1990
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Barbara Katus
Lifetime friends and neighbors from Southwest Philadelphia,
Darren Norwood and Terence Ryans were killed in a revenge attack intended for somebody else. The boys became friends when they were very young and were inseparable up to their deaths.
On a busy Saturday night in a University shopping area, Darren and his friend Terence were sitting in a parked car in West Philly after attending a movie nearby. Two young men approached the car from one side of the street while three other young men approached the car from the other side of the street. They converged on the car and opened up with automatic weapons and then sped away in a car. This was a senseless and tragic loss for two close families.
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Deanna “Dee-Dee” Wright-McIntosh
Deanna “Dee-Dee” Wright-McIntosh
Deanna “Dee-Dee” Wright-McIntosh
June 28, 1989-December 3, 2004
15 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Dee-Dee was an energetic, spiritual and beautiful young woman. She was a published poet, an aspiring model and a wonderful friend who had a passion for life. She was a sophomore student in High School who pursued theater, dancing and modeling and sang at M
June 28, 1989-December 3, 2004
15 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Dee-Dee was an energetic, spiritual and beautiful young woman. She was a published poet, an aspiring model and a wonderful friend who had a passion for life. She was a sophomore student in High School who pursued theater, dancing and modeling and sang at Mount Olive Baptist Church in West Philadelphia She had a strong will and was determined to make her mark upon the world.
Deanna’s ambitious dreams came to a tragic end when she was abducted and brutally murdered by a neighbor in December, 2004. A 29-year-old man was charged with killing Dee-Dee who left home a few days earlier after a minor argument with her mother. Authorities alleged that Lamar Haymes raped and killed 15-year-old Deanna Wright McIntosh at a house in Lansdowne just blocks from her family home, then cut up her body, put it in a steel drum and burned it with help from an acquaintance.
To ensure that her legacy will forever remain intact, her mother formed the Wright Choice Foundation as a means to protect other youth from falling victim to the predators in our communities that are pervasive yet often go undetected until it is too late.
Eddie Polec
Deanna “Dee-Dee” Wright-McIntosh
Veronica Rios
1978-1994
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Janet McShain
Eddie was a nice guy. He laughed and smiled with ease and was always generous. He was a 16 year old kid who still brought injured birds and squirrels home to try to nurse back to helath. He had a soft spot in his heart for the weak and afraid and would try to help whenever possible. He l
1978-1994
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Janet McShain
Eddie was a nice guy. He laughed and smiled with ease and was always generous. He was a 16 year old kid who still brought injured birds and squirrels home to try to nurse back to helath. He had a soft spot in his heart for the weak and afraid and would try to help whenever possible. He lived for the moment and loved with his entire self. He felt other's pain and misery and in his own way, would bring a bit of joy into their hearts.
Eddie loved his job at Boston Chicken. He talked about going to cooking school. Maybe he would have been a great chef. Who knows. He definitely would have spend his life doing things that brought him and others happiness. Sadly, we will never find out. His life was cut short in November of 1994 while he was senselessly beaten to death with baseball bats. See less
Veronica Rios
Deanna “Dee-Dee” Wright-McIntosh
Veronica Rios
January 11, 1986 - August 16, 2001
15 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Alan Bond
Veronica was a beautiful young woman with many talents. She loved to sing, design clothing and write poetry. She always had a way of lifting everyone’s spirits with her breathtaking smile.
On August 16, 2001, Veronica decided to spend the night at a frie
January 11, 1986 - August 16, 2001
15 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Alan Bond
Veronica was a beautiful young woman with many talents. She loved to sing, design clothing and write poetry. She always had a way of lifting everyone’s spirits with her breathtaking smile.
On August 16, 2001, Veronica decided to spend the night at a friend’s house. She was sitting on the steps with several friends braiding her cousin Joey’s hair. Suddenly, two blue cars pulled up and a group of young men jumped out and started shooting at everyone in sight. The intended target was her cousin Joey. Veronica tried to run into her friend’s house but the door was locked. When she couldn’t get in, she tried to run away when a bullet struck her in the left side of her neck. She was rushed to the hospital and was kept on life support until her family could say their last goodbyes. She died shortly after.
Luis Miguel Soto
Teonna Shawntell Robinson
John Robert Weitz
December 3, 1971-January 25, 1995
Philadelphia, Pa
painted by Margaretta Gilboy
Luis was a kind, loving person, trusted and close to family and friends. He always had a nice smile and was always willing to lend a helping hand.
He will be truly missed by all who knew him.
John Robert Weitz
Teonna Shawntell Robinson
John Robert Weitz
December 20. 1988 - March 3, 2007
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Carol Denmark
Teonna Shawntell Robinson
Teonna Shawntell Robinson
Teonna Shawntell Robinson
1981-1984
2 years old
Painted by Sally Chase
Teonna was born October 1981. She grew into a beautiful baby who walked and talked early. On January 6, 1984, her father stabbed her 10 times in the heart and also stabbed and strangled her mother.
Robert Pierson
Tyrell Darrion Williams
Teonna Shawntell Robinson
December 14, 1988-April 16, 2006
17 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Robert was one of the nicest kids in the neighborhood. He was one of those kids that would go out of his way to help anyone and he always had a smile on his face. He loved baseball. Joe Dunn, his coach, who had coached him for five years when he played f
December 14, 1988-April 16, 2006
17 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Robert was one of the nicest kids in the neighborhood. He was one of those kids that would go out of his way to help anyone and he always had a smile on his face. He loved baseball. Joe Dunn, his coach, who had coached him for five years when he played for the Fairmount Sports Association said “Robert was one of the best players I ever coached.” Even as he became a star player, his coach said he never tried to show anybody up.
A group of North Philadelphia teens told police they had come to Fairmount to rob people. The half-dozen kids threw a bottle at a row home and ran until they were confronted at 27th and Parrish Streets by Robert and his friends. One of the teens pulled out a gun, pointed the barrel at Robert and shot him, then dumped the weapon under a car. Robert died on Easter Sunday. He had been shot 3 weeks before and clung to life before succumbing to complications from the bullet that ripped through his throat and lodged near his spine.
So many from that tight-knit community knew and loved Robert and feel he is “Gone but Not Forgotten!”
Hiroc Ortega
Tyrell Darrion Williams
Tyrell Darrion Williams
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
painted by Karl Hanson
A quiet, handsome and shy young man, Hiroc had a wonderful spirit for life. Hiroc had a passion for music. He loved to sing and dance and would often dance with his sister. He also liked sports and enjoyed watching television.
Hiroc came to Philadelphia from his homeland of Santo Doming
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
painted by Karl Hanson
A quiet, handsome and shy young man, Hiroc had a wonderful spirit for life. Hiroc had a passion for music. He loved to sing and dance and would often dance with his sister. He also liked sports and enjoyed watching television.
Hiroc came to Philadelphia from his homeland of Santo Domingo in search of a better life. He was in the 9th grade at Kensington High School and had only been in this country for seven months when he was murdered by a group of teenagers who stole $29 from him. He will be greatly and sadly missed by all who know him and love him. His family had so many hopes and dreams for him that were taken away by people who don't care about the lives of others.
Tyrell Darrion Williams
Tyrell Darrion Williams
Tyrell Darrion Williams
March 10, 1983-November 20, 1998
15 years old
painted by Samantha Heyman
Tyrell was a very energetic and lovable person. He was very funny and could always make you laugh and lift your spirits. Tyrell was outgoing, sports-loving, determined and motivated. He was a good student and classmate. He had an exemplary record in school and ROTC
March 10, 1983-November 20, 1998
15 years old
painted by Samantha Heyman
Tyrell was a very energetic and lovable person. He was very funny and could always make you laugh and lift your spirits. Tyrell was outgoing, sports-loving, determined and motivated. He was a good student and classmate. He had an exemplary record in school and ROTC and dreamed of becoming an officer in the Air Force.
In November 1998, Tyrell and a friend went to a party. Each of them brought a canned good to help the needy as admission to the party. Tyrell met someone he knew there who invited him to his house. Once at his house, the acquaintance proudly showed Tyrell his gun. While unloading it he pointed the gun at Tyrell, pulled the trigger and shot Tyrell in the neck, senselessly killing him.
Portrait Gallery
Kieu T. Nguyen
Eddie John Stecker
Kieu T. Nguyen
1984-1997
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Valerie Barasso
Kieu Nguyen and her mother moved from Saigon to Philadelphia in 1993 to seek a better life. Kieu was a good student and had recently won a “Student of the Month” certificate from her elementary school.
One evening Kieu went to a Karaoke restaurant with some friends when Phuong Vo str
1984-1997
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Valerie Barasso
Kieu Nguyen and her mother moved from Saigon to Philadelphia in 1993 to seek a better life. Kieu was a good student and had recently won a “Student of the Month” certificate from her elementary school.
One evening Kieu went to a Karaoke restaurant with some friends when Phuong Vo struck a man over the head with a glass of beer and threatened to kill everyone inside. When Vo was thrown out , the man he had struck and several others ran outside and began battering him. Vo broke loose, ran to a nearby car, grabbed an automatic handgun and fired 10 shots towards a crowd of people. As Kieu was trying to break up the fight, Vo pointed the gun and fired at Kieu after she had fallen wounded.
Kieu’s death was a tragic end to a short life.
Casha'e Rivers
Eddie John Stecker
Kieu T. Nguyen
5 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Casha'e blossomed - and she was going to be someone special some day. She had just started kindergarten and was delighted by school. She loved watching "Dora the Explorer" on television and dancing Wu-tang.
Casha'e was killed Sunday morning, September 24, 2006 in the Strawberry Mansion
5 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Casha'e blossomed - and she was going to be someone special some day. She had just started kindergarten and was delighted by school. She loved watching "Dora the Explorer" on television and dancing Wu-tang.
Casha'e was killed Sunday morning, September 24, 2006 in the Strawberry Mansion section of the city. According to police, a convicted drug felon fired into the car her mother was driving because he thought it was tailing him. One bullet entered Casha'e's heart as she sat in the back-seat next to her baby brother.
At her funeral, her father Charles Rivers, Jr., granted a furlough to attend his daughter's funeral, remembered the way Casha'e everytime she visited him in prison. "She always had to be the last one to hug me. It was like she was sending me back in with her protection."
Eddie John Stecker
Eddie John Stecker
Gregory Mark Tobler
2 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Eliza Auth
Charles Stecker was only 4 years old when he saw his foster mother, Lillian Bedford, kill his 2 year old brother Eddie. She hit Eddie so hard with a plastic bowling pin that he toppled out of his crib. Charles ran over to hold Eddie as he died, while blood poured out of his ears and nose
2 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Eliza Auth
Charles Stecker was only 4 years old when he saw his foster mother, Lillian Bedford, kill his 2 year old brother Eddie. She hit Eddie so hard with a plastic bowling pin that he toppled out of his crib. Charles ran over to hold Eddie as he died, while blood poured out of his ears and nose. He held onto Eddie as his foster mother beat him off and yanked so forcefully to get to Eddie that she broke Charles’ arm.
News accounts reveal that Bedford tidied the room before attending to the dying baby. She carried him to the tub to try to rinse off the blood before calling the police. Little Eddie was pronounced dead at the Germantown Hospital later that night. He was buried holding a teddy bear – a gift from his brother. Decades later Charles is still trying to figure out what happened, what went wrong. He continues to work tirelessly as a voice for the voiceless, as an advocate to prevent child-abuse and raise awareness. He is the founder of the International Child Abuse Prevention Task Force and “Chahlie’s Angel” Foundation.
Gregory Mark Tobler
Gregory Mark Tobler
Gregory Mark Tobler
August 21, 1968 – April 3, 1992
23 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Alan Bond
Gregory was a fun-loving, kind and affectionate young man who always tried to make those around him laugh. He was very loyal and thoughtful and always there for his friends and family when they needed anything. He was loved by just about everyone he came in
August 21, 1968 – April 3, 1992
23 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Alan Bond
Gregory was a fun-loving, kind and affectionate young man who always tried to make those around him laugh. He was very loyal and thoughtful and always there for his friends and family when they needed anything. He was loved by just about everyone he came in contact with. He also had a great affection for cats.
Gregory was only 23 years old when he was shot and killed during a robbery on April 3, 1992
Elizabeth Rivera
Gregory Mark Tobler
Elizabeth Rivera
1975 - 1981
6 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Eliza Auth
Elizabeth enjoyed going to school, taking ballet lessons and most of all playing with her seven-year old brother.
Tragically, one day Elizabeth’s brother decided to play with weapons he found in their parent’s bedroom. It wasn’t long before one of the weapons discharged and
1975 - 1981
6 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Eliza Auth
Elizabeth enjoyed going to school, taking ballet lessons and most of all playing with her seven-year old brother.
Tragically, one day Elizabeth’s brother decided to play with weapons he found in their parent’s bedroom. It wasn’t long before one of the weapons discharged and Elizabeth was hit. Any dreams she might have had were lost that day, but will live on in the hearts of her family forever.
Devon Phillips
Gregory Mark Tobler
Elizabeth Rivera
1989-1994
5 years old
Washington, D.C.
Painted by Diane Upton
A beautiful 5 year old boy. Devon was a bubbly child with a crooked smile who had just learned to ride a two-wheeled bicycle. Everyone in the closely knit neighborhood really loved that little boy. Devon would often visit his neighbors so long he would fall asleep and he would
1989-1994
5 years old
Washington, D.C.
Painted by Diane Upton
A beautiful 5 year old boy. Devon was a bubbly child with a crooked smile who had just learned to ride a two-wheeled bicycle. Everyone in the closely knit neighborhood really loved that little boy. Devon would often visit his neighbors so long he would fall asleep and he wouldn't go home until the next day.
Devon was stabbed to death with a screwdriver by his mother's estranged boyfriend.
Eric Michael Rice
Eric Michael Rice
Eric Michael Rice
June 15, 1988-January 5, 1990
18 months old
Bridgeton, New Jersey
Painted by Karl Hanson
18 month old Eric never had a chance. Eric and his mother had moved in with her mother to get away from an abusive husband. But in January 1990, Eric stayed with his father for a few days and that is when his father suffocated little Eric. He wanted to make sure no other could take care of his son.
Michael Spurlock
Eric Michael Rice
Eric Michael Rice
Michael Spurlock
August 1974-February 1999
24 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
A talented and creative artist, Michael covered the walls of his room with brightly colored murals that expressed the quirky sense of humor for which he was known. The artistic and giving sides of his nature often combined, such as when Michea
Michael Spurlock
August 1974-February 1999
24 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
A talented and creative artist, Michael covered the walls of his room with brightly colored murals that expressed the quirky sense of humor for which he was known. The artistic and giving sides of his nature often combined, such as when Micheal airbrushed a t-shirt for his mother that said “World’s Greatest Mom.” Always a fan of road trips, Michael dreamed of one day traveling to places such as Florida, Las Vegas and Europe. Michael’s life had seen ups and downs during his 24 years, but throughout it all, Michael maintained his generosity and huge heart.
Michael’s dreams of art and travel were lost in a fatal car accident that cost him his life. On February 7, 1999, Michael was the passenger of a car going over 117 mph that crashed into an electric pole. The driver, under the influence of drugs and alcohol, fled the scene without even notifying the police. Therefore when transferred to the hospital for medical treatment, help came too late
Darryl A Pray Jr.
Eric Michael Rice
Shaline Marie Seguinot
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Darryl adored his family and friends. He was a role model, mentor, leader and protector to his family and many friends. He was very intelligent, was a skilled basketball player and had a love for mathematics which led him to develop a financial plan for his family. He was accepted at th
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Darryl adored his family and friends. He was a role model, mentor, leader and protector to his family and many friends. He was very intelligent, was a skilled basketball player and had a love for mathematics which led him to develop a financial plan for his family. He was accepted at the Thompson Institute of Philadelphia and the Community College of Philadelphia and thought of serving his country in the National Guard.
His many dreams were shattered on July 21, 2009 when he was shot to death over an earlier argument
Shaline Marie Seguinot
Shaline Marie Seguinot
Shaline Marie Seguinot
1982-1995
Camden, N.J.
Painted by Leigh Gustafson
Shaline was a very beautiful young lady on her was to adulthood. She worked very hard to succeed and took her education very seriously as she had high hopes for the future. She always dreamed of being a child psychiatrist. Shaline was loved by everyone she came in contact with because she
1982-1995
Camden, N.J.
Painted by Leigh Gustafson
Shaline was a very beautiful young lady on her was to adulthood. She worked very hard to succeed and took her education very seriously as she had high hopes for the future. She always dreamed of being a child psychiatrist. Shaline was loved by everyone she came in contact with because she was kind, generous and funny. She enjoyed reading, dancing, cheerleading, music, shopping and jewelry. She always enjoyed being with her family and friends.
She was last seen riding a friend's bicycle. Her decomposed body was found several days later. She had been stabbed numerous times in the chest. Her untimely death has left a deep sorrow in the hearts of everyone who knew her.
Jake Schaffer
Shaline Marie Seguinot
William Panas, Jr
1977-1995
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Janet McShain
1977-1995
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Janet McShain
Jake Shaffer, called "little Jake" by his family and friends, was a fun-loving, happy and considerate teenager. He always treated people with respect, like he would like to be treated. He was happiest when he was on the basketball court. Jake always had to have a hat to match his shirt.
On a hot summer day in August 1995, Jake was hanging out with his girlfriend near a basketball court. He heard loud noises and told his girlfriend he was going to check out what was going on. He walked through a crowd of kids. When he got to the front of the crowd was confronted by Ivory Nemorian with a sawed off shotgun. Ivory yelled "I'm the man, I'm the man." The gun fired. Jake fell to his knees, kissed his fingers and said "Now I'm the man." He is sadly missed by so many family and friends.
William Panas, Jr
Shaline Marie Seguinot
William Panas, Jr
.Age 21
On November 21, 2009
Painted by Nancy Bea Miller
William Panas left his home to pick up Chinese Food when he came across a fight. He was trying to break it up when he was shot by Frank Tepper, an off-duty Police Officer.
Tepper, who had a history of misconduct, has since been convicted of first degree murder and is serving a lif
.Age 21
On November 21, 2009
Painted by Nancy Bea Miller
William Panas left his home to pick up Chinese Food when he came across a fight. He was trying to break it up when he was shot by Frank Tepper, an off-duty Police Officer.
Tepper, who had a history of misconduct, has since been convicted of first degree murder and is serving a life prison term for killing his neighbor. He had been drinking and shot Panas with his personal pistol in their Port Richmond neighborhood.
Portrait Gallery
Khalif Thorpe
Justin Anthony Reyes
Justin Anthony Reyes
1991 – 2010
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Alan Bond
Khalif had a job at a daycare center where he loved working with the children. He loved music and drawing and eating. He learned how to write in Arabic from his grandparents. He was very helpful to his family, friends and neighbors.
Khalif’s dream was to earn his High School
1991 – 2010
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Alan Bond
Khalif had a job at a daycare center where he loved working with the children. He loved music and drawing and eating. He learned how to write in Arabic from his grandparents. He was very helpful to his family, friends and neighbors.
Khalif’s dream was to earn his High School diploma. He wanted to prove to his father that he could do it and he was just 3 weeks shy of graduating from Furness High School when he was gunned down - shot multiple times. He was in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Justin Anthony Reyes
Justin Anthony Reyes
Justin Anthony Reyes
March 17, 1994-June 11, 2011
17 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Justin was an amazing, bright child. He was always asking questions and hungry to learn new things. It was astounding how quickly he learned. He was interested in and curious about everything. He wanted to see how things worked. He was able to take things apa
March 17, 1994-June 11, 2011
17 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Justin was an amazing, bright child. He was always asking questions and hungry to learn new things. It was astounding how quickly he learned. He was interested in and curious about everything. He wanted to see how things worked. He was able to take things apart and put them back together again and fix things like his friends’ bikes. If he didn’t have a part he would improvise.
Justin enjoyed fishing with his uncle and friends. He was very passionate about nature. He would rescue and feed all creatures in need. His love for animals was so great that he was given a limit to how many animals he could bring home. He would also feed the stray cats in the neighborhood. Justin dreamed of becoming a veterinarian and owning a pet store one day.
He was very loving, thoughtful, giving and generous to his family, friends or anyone that needed anything. He was full of life and had a great sense of humor. Justin was a dedicated son and grandson, a loving cousin and nephew. Justin loved life and that is his beautiful legacy that will live on.
On June 11, 2011 around 10:00 p.m. Justin and his friend (who was the intended target) were on their way to the store when two people came up and shot Justin and his friend.
Stephen Taylor
Justin Anthony Reyes
Stephen Taylor
1983-2009
25 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Stephen was full of life. He liked having a good time, enjoyed partying and loved dancing. He was a reliable and caring friend and had lots of good friends.
He was a star athlete, excelling at both Soccer and Basketball.
He enjoyed being a carpenter and had a dream to move to C
1983-2009
25 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Stephen was full of life. He liked having a good time, enjoyed partying and loved dancing. He was a reliable and caring friend and had lots of good friends.
He was a star athlete, excelling at both Soccer and Basketball.
He enjoyed being a carpenter and had a dream to move to California with his brothers and sister. He hoped to marry soon and start a family.
In February 2009, Stephen was a passenger in a car with a good friend who had been drinking. His friend just got a new car and wanted to see how fast it could go. At 89mph he hit a tree and Stephen was violently thrown out the back window. After being on life support for 4 days he died Feb. 26, 2009.
Destiny Wright
Petra Yamira Vargas and Rodolfo Rodriguez
Stephen Taylor
August 16, 1995-August 7, 2002
8 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Destiny, known to her family and close friends as "Lil Dirt", was a very loving and happy child. Whenever you saw her, she was always smiling. Destiny loved to dance, draw, swim and watch videos of her favorite performer, Lil Bow Wow.
On August 7, 2004, De
August 16, 1995-August 7, 2002
8 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Destiny, known to her family and close friends as "Lil Dirt", was a very loving and happy child. Whenever you saw her, she was always smiling. Destiny loved to dance, draw, swim and watch videos of her favorite performer, Lil Bow Wow.
On August 7, 2004, Destiny was sleeping over a friend's house. In the middle of the night a man who was also staying in the house, entered her room, raped her and strangled her to death.
Petra Yamira Vargas and Rodolfo Rodriguez
Petra Yamira Vargas and Rodolfo Rodriguez
Petra Yamira Vargas and Rodolfo Rodriguez
1978-1994
1974-1994
16 years old 20 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Diane Upton
Petra Yamira Vargas
Yamira, a 9th grade student at Edison High School, loved to dance and write poetry. Her last poem was "Fear of Pain." She was still grieving for her boyfriend, Rodolfo "Cholo" Rodriguez who was killed a few months earlier when a man ac
1978-1994
1974-1994
16 years old 20 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Diane Upton
Petra Yamira Vargas
Yamira, a 9th grade student at Edison High School, loved to dance and write poetry. Her last poem was "Fear of Pain." She was still grieving for her boyfriend, Rodolfo "Cholo" Rodriguez who was killed a few months earlier when a man accused him of stealing $5.
Yamira was shot in the head just outside of her house when about 20 shots were fired during a fight. Two rival groups had a fight earlier. One girl returned to the area that night to retrieve a pair of earrings that had been taken during the fight. Then another fight broke out and tempers flared. Yamira stepped out to see what the commotion was and was shot in the head.
Edwin "Cholo" Rodriguez
Rodolfo was killed when a man accused him of stealing $5. Petra, his girlfriend, was killed 4 months later when she got caught in a cross-fire of two rival groups.
Jason Richardson
Petra Yamira Vargas and Rodolfo Rodriguez
Petra Yamira Vargas and Rodolfo Rodriguez
June 16, 1982-October 17, 2004
22 years old
Philadelphia, Pa.
Painted by Janis Pinkston
Jason loved to sing from the moment he awoke until he fell asleep. He had a talent for singing and dreamt of pursuing a career in writing and performing music. He sang "I believe I can fly" at this high school graduation where he received a standing o
June 16, 1982-October 17, 2004
22 years old
Philadelphia, Pa.
Painted by Janis Pinkston
Jason loved to sing from the moment he awoke until he fell asleep. He had a talent for singing and dreamt of pursuing a career in writing and performing music. He sang "I believe I can fly" at this high school graduation where he received a standing ovation with many girls screaming his name.
Jason's dreams were cut short when he tried to break up a fight that started between a friend and a stranger outside of a club. The person stabbed Jason in the heart and he died almost instantly
William Ziolo
Jennifer Vargas
William Ziolo
1976-1992
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Lyse Dzija
Virgil Ross
Jennifer Vargas
William Ziolo
September 17,1993- May 23, 2019
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
On a beautiful Spring day, 25 year old Virgil Ross left his house to go for a bike ride. He told his mother he would be right back - he had a hot date lined up for that evening.
But Virgil didn’t return. At 11th and Thompson, Virgil was shot in broad daylight. He was p
September 17,1993- May 23, 2019
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
On a beautiful Spring day, 25 year old Virgil Ross left his house to go for a bike ride. He told his mother he would be right back - he had a hot date lined up for that evening.
But Virgil didn’t return. At 11th and Thompson, Virgil was shot in broad daylight. He was pronounced dead at the hospital. He was a victim, just riding his bike. Not only was he shot - he fell off his bike and the shooters went over and stood over him and looked in his face and continued to shoot.
His mother Sandra, takes great solace in the fact that a woman passing by comforted her dying son and was able to tell her his last words - He told her to tell his mom that he loved her
Jennifer Vargas
Jennifer Vargas
Christian Saladino
17 years old
Cagus, Puerto Rico
Painted by Pete Quarracino
Jennifer lived with her loving and caring family all of her life in Puerto Rico. Every other summer she had visited her relatives in Philadelphia. She was a wonderful friend and relative with many goals and dreams. Jennifer was in the 12th grade, planning for her prom and graduat
17 years old
Cagus, Puerto Rico
Painted by Pete Quarracino
Jennifer lived with her loving and caring family all of her life in Puerto Rico. Every other summer she had visited her relatives in Philadelphia. She was a wonderful friend and relative with many goals and dreams. Jennifer was in the 12th grade, planning for her prom and graduation.
In April 1998, Jennifer was returning a car to her boyfriend. While at a stop sign, a car pulled up alongside and several men jumped out of the car and began to shoot at the car. She was hit at least four times.
Christian Saladino
William Alexander Palmer
Christian Saladino
December 5, 1977-September 12, 1998
21 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Pete Quarracino, Jr.
Christian was an honor student at Cardinal Dougherty H.S. where he played on the basketball and football teams. He was nicknamed "Smiley" by this football coach because he always told jokes and made people laugh. he was kind-hearted, fun-lovi
December 5, 1977-September 12, 1998
21 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Pete Quarracino, Jr.
Christian was an honor student at Cardinal Dougherty H.S. where he played on the basketball and football teams. He was nicknamed "Smiley" by this football coach because he always told jokes and made people laugh. he was kind-hearted, fun-loving, and loved children and animals. He worked out diligently at the gym with his father and brother.
Christian was beaten with a baseball bat and “the Club” on August 4, 1996 by two men who mistakenly believed that Christian was among a group of people yelling racial slurs at them. The beating left Christian in a coma. His parents, Pat and Bernadette, cared for him at home until he died two years later. He is sadly missed
William Alexander Palmer
William Alexander Palmer
William Alexander Palmer
18 years old
November 1987-May 2006
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Eliza Auth
Will was interested in business at a very young age. He started his own e-bay business at the age of 15 selling sneakers internationally, and found it to be extremely rewarding. He worked various other jobs, including Giant Food Stores, Quizno’s Subs, Target and Pep
18 years old
November 1987-May 2006
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Eliza Auth
Will was interested in business at a very young age. He started his own e-bay business at the age of 15 selling sneakers internationally, and found it to be extremely rewarding. He worked various other jobs, including Giant Food Stores, Quizno’s Subs, Target and Pep Boys. He would work several of these jobs at the same time. Will believed in working hard and earning an honest dollar.
On May 30, 2006, two burglars shot and killed Will through the window of a parking lot booth where he worked. He will truly be remembered by all who knew him for his big smile and gentle spirit.
Matthew Charles Taylor
William Alexander Palmer
William Alexander Palmer
19 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Sharon Schwartz
Matthew was a very caring and giving young man with so many plans for the future. He had a heart bigger than his chest and was very protective of his friends and family. He loved sports, especially soccer and enjoyed joking around. Matthew had just graduated from high school, was en
19 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Sharon Schwartz
Matthew was a very caring and giving young man with so many plans for the future. He had a heart bigger than his chest and was very protective of his friends and family. He loved sports, especially soccer and enjoyed joking around. Matthew had just graduated from high school, was enjoying his life and was getting ready to buy his girlfriend Lisa an engagement ring.
All his dreams came to an end on Easter day in March 2005. After attending a party with a group of friends, they decided to stop into a Wawa to pick up some sandwiches. A man standing outside hassled them as they entered. The group ignored him and went into the store. When they came back out, he was waiting for them, and continued hassling them. Matthew got into the car waiting to leave, but when he heard gun shots he got out of the car and saw his best friend Alex get shot in the stomach. The shooter aimed at Alex to shoot him a second time when Matthew pushed Alex to the ground and took the bullet in his chest. It went straight to his heart. He bled to death within minutes. His family believes that Matthew earned his wings and went straight to heaven.
Portrait Gallery
Raymond Pantoja
Raymond Pantoja
Raymond Pantoja
May 4, 1989-April 10, 2016
26 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Sharon Egan
Raymond was a very lovable and loving young man. He had a free spirit and was like a ray of sunshine - he could light up a room with his smile and was never afraid to show affection to those he cared about. Family was everything to him. The birth of his daugh
May 4, 1989-April 10, 2016
26 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Sharon Egan
Raymond was a very lovable and loving young man. He had a free spirit and was like a ray of sunshine - he could light up a room with his smile and was never afraid to show affection to those he cared about. Family was everything to him. The birth of his daughter Joanna was the best moment of his life.
Raymond’s other passions included basketball and video games, but most of all his music. RJ rapped and went by the name Hommi. His dream was to become a professional singer. He hoped to go to a college of performing arts and then start fresh in Florida. He hoped to buy his mom the house of her dreams. He had always watched out for his mom. He believed you must be loyal to your family.
Lisa, his mother, had been addicted to drugs for 5 years. When Raymond was born she realized she had to get her life together. She was able to stop using and then went back to school. He was the lifesaver - the key to her recovery.
He also loved spending time with his Dad. They were very close. They hung out at barbecues and swimming pools and sometimes a little drinking. Raymond was also very close to his three brothers. He loved playing basketball and video games with Luis, loved watching movies and swimming with Christopher and communicated frequently with his brother Joey who lived in Florida.
He loved Thanksgiving and Christmas because the family was together and were thankful to be there. It was always really special. One of his favorite dishes was baked yams which he would share with everyone and then save the left overs for himself after everyone ate. Making it difficult for his mom to make his favorite dish after he passed.
Raymond was not a club person, in fact, he broke up with his girlfriend Megan because she liked to go to clubs and dance. Raymond would rather "chill at home." But on April 10, 2016 he was in a club in Kensington with 2 friends. When a fight started in the club, he helped the bouncers separate the fighters. But then the bouncers wouldn't let him leave the club. He really wanted to leave to get away from the scene before more people showed up to avenge the fight. When he finally could leave the club, his friend got jumped. Raymond tried to separate the fighters, but was jumped by 7 people. He fought for his life. As he got up - he turned and the suspect shot him in the heart - it tore the sack and ricocheted thru his lungs. Police arrived and rushed him to the hospital where he was DOA.
That day changed his family forever. Raymond was only 26 years old with a full life ahead of him, a life that was cut short due to a moment of anger. With his passing, he left behind a loving family. His family misses him very much every day. His mother Lisa said: “He’s always with us but I miss him so much. RJ, as I called him, surrounds me. He is in the sun, the wind, the winter and the rain, he is in the air I breathe with every breath I take. He sings songs as he did when he was alive, but now its through the birds of hope and peace."
She keeps his memory alive with "Ray's Rhythm for Justice Foundation" whose mission is to assist in lobbying and working with local politicians for stronger gun control laws and to provide youth with other outlets through performing arts and educating them at a young age that violence is not the answer. The family's hope is that Raymond's story may make a difference in another youth's life.
Kyle Quinn
Raymond Pantoja
Raymond Pantoja
1988-2007
Philadelphia, Pa.
Painted by Eliza Auth
Kyle was known for his great smile. He had a gentle spirit and was always smiling. He loved 1960’s counter-culture –Easy Rider, Kerouac and Bob Dylan. “I like a lot of other stuff, but if WWIII started tomorrow I would only grab my Dylan albums” he said.
Kyle graduated from William Te
1988-2007
Philadelphia, Pa.
Painted by Eliza Auth
Kyle was known for his great smile. He had a gentle spirit and was always smiling. He loved 1960’s counter-culture –Easy Rider, Kerouac and Bob Dylan. “I like a lot of other stuff, but if WWIII started tomorrow I would only grab my Dylan albums” he said.
Kyle graduated from William Tennent HS in 2006 as an honor student where he loved writing poetry. He was a sophomore history major at Kutztown after taking classes at Penn State and a summer course at Bucks County Community College. He had been on campus less than two weeks.
On September 7, 2007, Kyle was on his way home on Main Street in Kutztown, returning to his brother’s apartment, when he was beaten to death. Timothy Gearhart and Kenneth and Terry Kline had just left a bar and were driving around looking for someone to beat up. Unfortunately they found Kyle. Terry Kline threw a punch and knocked him to the ground, Gearhart beat him in the head with a wooden table leg. All three are convicted in Kyle’s murder.
Kyle is dearly missed by his friends and family. His family continues to work tirelessly in the community in Kyle’s name to create a better and safer environment.
James Sweat
Raymond Pantoja
James Sweat
Dec. 25, 1976 - Sept. 15, 1992
15 years old
Philadelphia, Pa.
Painted by Jenny Kahn
James was born December 25, 1976. His family enjoyed watching him grow from a young boy to a fine young man. He was a shy, good-looking kid who was always polite and also did well in school. He loved children tremendously and worked with them in the community
Dec. 25, 1976 - Sept. 15, 1992
15 years old
Philadelphia, Pa.
Painted by Jenny Kahn
James was born December 25, 1976. His family enjoyed watching him grow from a young boy to a fine young man. He was a shy, good-looking kid who was always polite and also did well in school. He loved children tremendously and worked with them in the community recreation center teaching them basketball. He planned to try out for the varsity basketball team and dreamed of one day playing professional basketball.
James was killed when a man who had been beaten earlier by a group of teenagers came back for revenge. Gun shots were fired into a house where James had been with friends at a party. James was hit in the neck and died three days later. He had nothing to do with the earlier fight. He was an innocent bystander - at the wrong place at the wrong time.
Mervin Spady
Cordell Erwin
James Sweat
September 15, 1978- June 18, 2000
20 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Jennifer Kanzler
Raised in Philadelphia, Mervin graduated with honors from Edison High School. He loved to play basketball and had aspirations of becoming a rap artist. He would often sit and write lyrics for hours at a time. He was a bright and very sweet person
September 15, 1978- June 18, 2000
20 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Jennifer Kanzler
Raised in Philadelphia, Mervin graduated with honors from Edison High School. He loved to play basketball and had aspirations of becoming a rap artist. He would often sit and write lyrics for hours at a time. He was a bright and very sweet person with plenty of friends.
Late at night on June 17th, Mervin and some friends had just left a party when one of his friends got into a dispute with her boyfriend. Mervin made an effort to make peace by trying to stop the argument. One word led to another, and Mervin was shot numerous times. He died a few days later at Temple Hospital. Subsequently, the perpetrator was caught and convicted of third degree murder.
Eric Erwin
Cordell Erwin
Cordell Erwin
1979-1995
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Anne Martin
Eric, known as Khalid and his brother Cordell were both very respectful, fun loving and a joy to be with. They participated in several different athletic leagues, but Basketball was their favorite. In younger years, they were both Boy Scouts. They enjoyed being with each other, their frie
1979-1995
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Anne Martin
Eric, known as Khalid and his brother Cordell were both very respectful, fun loving and a joy to be with. They participated in several different athletic leagues, but Basketball was their favorite. In younger years, they were both Boy Scouts. They enjoyed being with each other, their friends and especially their best friends of all, Spike and Tyson, their two Pit Bulls.
On March 29, 1995, both young men were tragically shot down. They will be deeply missed, for they were much loved.
Cordell Erwin
Cordell Erwin
Cordell Erwin
981-1995
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Anne Martin
Cordell, known as Rahman, and his brother Eric were both very respectful, fun loving and a joy to be with. They participated in several different athletic leagues, but Basketball was their favorite. In younger years, they were both Boy Scouts. They enjoyed being with each other, their frien
981-1995
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Anne Martin
Cordell, known as Rahman, and his brother Eric were both very respectful, fun loving and a joy to be with. They participated in several different athletic leagues, but Basketball was their favorite. In younger years, they were both Boy Scouts. They enjoyed being with each other, their friends and especially their best friends of all, Spike and Tyson, their two Pit Bulls.
On March 29, 1995, both young men were tragically shot down. They will be deeply missed, for they were much loved.
Jasmine Wallace
Eric Dmitri Perry
Jasmine Wallace
May 9, 1986-December 8, 2005
19 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Jasmine was a sweet, mild-mannered young woman. She enjoyed fishing, going to the movies, reading and spending time with her family. She always remained strong and positive in spite of the many challenges she faced. She was a graduate of Washington High School
May 9, 1986-December 8, 2005
19 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Jasmine was a sweet, mild-mannered young woman. She enjoyed fishing, going to the movies, reading and spending time with her family. She always remained strong and positive in spite of the many challenges she faced. She was a graduate of Washington High School and had attended Penn State’s Abington’s campus for a year. She was thinking about a career as a pediatrician or in nursing and enjoyed her job as a dietary assistant at a residential center for handicapped adults. Her goal for the new year was to make sure Sundays were available for going to church.
Jasmine’s was found dead in her apartment – shot in the head. The killer caught her in the morning, when she’d just gotten out of bed. After shooting her in the head with a handgun, the gunman put her 6 week-old kitten in the bathroom with two opens cans of food and then closed the door
name
Eric Dmitri Perry
Jasmine Wallace
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Eric Dmitri Perry
Eric Dmitri Perry
Eric Dmitri Perry
Age 23
November 15, 1995 - March 18, 2019
Philadelphia, Pa.
Painted by Karl Hanson
Eric’s smile could light up the room. He was very well loved by his many friends and family. He was the kind of person who would help anybody, he would give the shirt off his back if someone needed it.
Eric would often hang out in the family basement with
Age 23
November 15, 1995 - March 18, 2019
Philadelphia, Pa.
Painted by Karl Hanson
Eric’s smile could light up the room. He was very well loved by his many friends and family. He was the kind of person who would help anybody, he would give the shirt off his back if someone needed it.
Eric would often hang out in the family basement with his friends, playing video games. His younger sister Ashley was often there with them and they all thought of her as their “little sister.” Eric spoiled Ashley. He would lavish gifts on her and go with her to fun places like The Crayola Factory and Build a Bear.
He was very determined and hardworking. Nothing could stop him. He loved playing football and learned all 66 books of the Bible. His Mother said he was involved in church and stayed out of trouble.
At 23, Eric Demetri Perry graduated from Post University in Connecticut with a degree in Sports Management. Afterwards he worked at Enterprise Rent-A-Car in Philadelphia and hoped to earn his Masters Degree online in Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine.
But all his dreams were shattered early morning Monday, March 18, 2019 when Perry was shot multiple times in his chest, torso and arms. Detectives found 10 spent shell casings from a missing semi-automatic gun. Perry was rushed to Albert Einstein Medical Center, where he was pronounced dead.
"Mr. Perry had no criminal history. By all accounts, Mr. Perry was a fine young man," Philadelphia homicide captain Jason Smith said. "He was a college graduate. He worked hard, paid his own bills. Those who live on the block spoke very highly of him."
His loss has been very hard on his family and friends who think about the good times and miss him dearly.
Diana Ortiz
Marylee Otto
Eric Dmitri Perry
15 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Dante Celia
Diana was a happy and truly beautiful person. When your spirits were down she had a smile that lifted them up. When you felt pain, she was the best Tylenol. From the day she entered Waring Elementary School, she received certificates for her many achievements. Diana wanted to be a pe
15 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Dante Celia
Diana was a happy and truly beautiful person. When your spirits were down she had a smile that lifted them up. When you felt pain, she was the best Tylenol. From the day she entered Waring Elementary School, she received certificates for her many achievements. Diana wanted to be a pediatrician and a fashion designer when she grew up. She had many other dreams that will never be fulfilled. Those who knew her will never forget her ruby red smile, her ponytail and most of all her goodness.
Diana was sitting on steps with her friends in the Tioga section when she was hit and killed by a stray bullet.
Marylee Otto
Marylee Otto
Marylee Otto
1993-2008
15 y.o.
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Eliza Auth
Marylee was a beautiful, lovely, benevolent young woman with big blue eyes and a lovely smile. She was a social butterfly who enjoyed her many friend
Returning from the Neshaminy Mall, while walking with friends, Marylee was tragically struck and killed by a hit and run driver. She w
1993-2008
15 y.o.
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Eliza Auth
Marylee was a beautiful, lovely, benevolent young woman with big blue eyes and a lovely smile. She was a social butterfly who enjoyed her many friend
Returning from the Neshaminy Mall, while walking with friends, Marylee was tragically struck and killed by a hit and run driver. She was rushed to the hospital where she died hours later. Friends and family were shocked and horrified. They love her and miss her dearly. Her mother Teresa Sautter has been relentlessly trying to get state lawmakers to increase the mandatory-minimum sentence for a driver who flees the scene of an accident.
x
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Marylee Otto
Marylee Otto
xxx
Portrait Gallery
Fletcher "Pip" Oglesby
Fletcher "Pip" Oglesby
Fletcher "Pip" Oglesby
February 4, 1964-September 30, 1981
17 years old
Painted by Anthony Carroll
Fletcher attended Strawberry Jr. High School where his basketball career began. He loved playing basketball, and after graduation from junior high, Fletcher attended Benjamin Franklin High School where he joined their team. In three seasons Fletcher won ten champ
February 4, 1964-September 30, 1981
17 years old
Painted by Anthony Carroll
Fletcher attended Strawberry Jr. High School where his basketball career began. He loved playing basketball, and after graduation from junior high, Fletcher attended Benjamin Franklin High School where he joined their team. In three seasons Fletcher won ten championship trophies and was looking forward to a career playing basketball in college.
Fletcher's dreams of a basketball career came to a tragic end when he was gunned down on the corner of 24th and Ringgold Streets on September 30, 1981, The two men responsible for his death were sentenced to life in prison
Lamont Smith
Fletcher "Pip" Oglesby
Fletcher "Pip" Oglesby
Painted by Arcmanoro Niles
Kevin Tanczak
Fletcher "Pip" Oglesby
Levon "Boo" Wilson
January 18, 1985 - June 1, 2006
21 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Kevin was the light in any room. He was a hard worker and wanted to be a chef someday. He was a loving brother, son, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend and most of all father - to a young boy who turned 1 years old two days after he died.
Kevin was shot in the
January 18, 1985 - June 1, 2006
21 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Kevin was the light in any room. He was a hard worker and wanted to be a chef someday. He was a loving brother, son, uncle, cousin, nephew, friend and most of all father - to a young boy who turned 1 years old two days after he died.
Kevin was shot in the back during a bar fight. His friends and family miss him every day.
Levon "Boo" Wilson
Levon "Boo" Wilson
Levon "Boo" Wilson
July 26, 1983 - Sept. 11, 2002
19 years old
Painted by Karl Hanson
Levon was an energetic, fun-loving and popular young man who enjoyed playing basketball, joking around and drawing. He had a great love for his little sister Khalisha who he always encouraged to "keep your mind right." In his own way, he brought joy to all who knew him.
On
July 26, 1983 - Sept. 11, 2002
19 years old
Painted by Karl Hanson
Levon was an energetic, fun-loving and popular young man who enjoyed playing basketball, joking around and drawing. He had a great love for his little sister Khalisha who he always encouraged to "keep your mind right." In his own way, he brought joy to all who knew him.
On September 11, 2002 Levon was shot thirteen times in the back as he walked away from an argument that he thought was over.
Michael Rozgonyi
Levon "Boo" Wilson
Michael Rozgonyi
15 years old
West Mifflin, Penna
Painted by Lisa Lentz
Michael was born in 1978. His beautiful soft blue eyes and big affectionate smile could warm the coldest of hearts. along with a winsome personality, Michael had a keen sense of humor. He was a typical teenager who liked school and enjoyed playing video games and street hockey with
15 years old
West Mifflin, Penna
Painted by Lisa Lentz
Michael was born in 1978. His beautiful soft blue eyes and big affectionate smile could warm the coldest of hearts. along with a winsome personality, Michael had a keen sense of humor. He was a typical teenager who liked school and enjoyed playing video games and street hockey with his friends. Most of all Michael loved his family.
On October 15, 1993, Michael was involved in a confrontation while getting off a school bus. A fellow student slashed his throat with a knife hidden in the sleeve of his jacket. Michael had just entered the 9th grade and was on the threshold of a life that held much promise.
Andrew Rivera
Levon "Boo" Wilson
Michael Rozgonyi
November 25, 1985 – May 7, 2004
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Drew loved life. He lived every moment to the fullest and enjoyed many good times with family and friends. He had a flair for fashion, always wearing his matching hat, jersey and sneakers. He loved music, girls and movies and had a great talent for impers
November 25, 1985 – May 7, 2004
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Drew loved life. He lived every moment to the fullest and enjoyed many good times with family and friends. He had a flair for fashion, always wearing his matching hat, jersey and sneakers. He loved music, girls and movies and had a great talent for impersonations. Drew had a great artistic ability and hoped to be an artist one day.
On May 6, 2004, Drew got into an argument with an unknown person who shot him seven times and just casually walked away. Drew was taken to the hospital where he died the next day. His family misses his laughter and love, but most of all his beautiful sunshine smile.
Luis Saez
Derrick Thomas
Derrick Thomas
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Sharon Swartz
Derrick Thomas
Derrick Thomas
Derrick Thomas
19 years old
Philadelphia< Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Derrick was a happy kid - charming, sensitive and strong. Everyone automatically liked him when they met him. His 6 year old brother looked up to him as a role model. He was about to begin his sophomore year in college and was thinking about turning pre-med. A bullet stopped that dream.
19 years old
Philadelphia< Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Derrick was a happy kid - charming, sensitive and strong. Everyone automatically liked him when they met him. His 6 year old brother looked up to him as a role model. He was about to begin his sophomore year in college and was thinking about turning pre-med. A bullet stopped that dream.
Derrick's car ran out of gas while he was driving through Germantown. So he got out of his car to walk to a gas station. Unfortunately, he was wearing a gold chain. A robber who had no regard for human life approached Derrick and told him to "give it up" and then proceeded shoot him in the back of his head. Derrick fell to his knees and the gunman ripped the chain off his neck. Sadly Derrick died the next day.
Amanda Trippet
Derrick Thomas
Amanda Trippet
1982-1995
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Kathy Winter
Amanda was a petite girl with a bright future and outlook. She had made shamrocks for her seventh grade class, planted marigolds and crabapple trees around her school and spoke of one day becoming a judge. She was very determined , had true leadership qualities and other students gravitated
1982-1995
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Kathy Winter
Amanda was a petite girl with a bright future and outlook. She had made shamrocks for her seventh grade class, planted marigolds and crabapple trees around her school and spoke of one day becoming a judge. She was very determined , had true leadership qualities and other students gravitated towards her. She was a peacemaker... she saw so much violence around her that she was determined to help solve problems.
After missing for several months, Amanda's body was found stuffed in a plastic trash bag behind a fence near her home.
Jarell Seay
Daniel Santiago
Amanda Trippet
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Janis Pinkston
Joel and Cherlynne Seay worked hard to protect their youngest son from the dangers of their West Philadelphia neighborhood. Each morning Joel drove Jarell to a private school in Montgomery County, 30 miles away. He earned good grades and he excelled at sports and music, his principal
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Janis Pinkston
Joel and Cherlynne Seay worked hard to protect their youngest son from the dangers of their West Philadelphia neighborhood. Each morning Joel drove Jarell to a private school in Montgomery County, 30 miles away. He earned good grades and he excelled at sports and music, his principal said.
Jarell was a well-liked young man, known for his sense of humor. Little kids in the neighborhood would often come over and knock on the door to see if Jarell could come out and play. Jarell was a standout forward on the basketball team. He spent his free time in the school’s electronic studio, recording music. His friend Amber said he wanted a career in music or computers and planned to work for his father in the meantime. Graduation day would have fallen on Jarell’s 19th birthday. He was considering technical colleges, military service or working full time in his father’s contracting business, his family said.
On a beautiful Easter Sunday afternoon on April 24, 2011 the lives of Cheryl and Joel changed forever. Just as the family finished Easter supper Sunday evening, Joel saw his son’s life end in a burst of gunfire when a gunman shot Jarell on the porch of the family’s home. Their 18 year old son was murdered by senseless gunfire in front of family, friends, neighbors and children. Two people had knocked on the front door. Joel answered it and Jarell went outside. After a brief exchange of word, one of them shot him in the chest. He was pronounced dead shortly afterward. Police have provided no motive in the shooting and no arrests have been made.
Jarell’s parents struggle to make sense of the killing of their son, whom they called a good kid who stayed away from trouble. “We have no idea why anyone would want to hurt that boy,” Joel said. He had never seen the killers before. He stood on the porch as the killers whispered to his son. When he turned to go back inside, one man took out a gun and fired. “It happened so fast, I couldn’t even dive in front of my boy. I couldn’t protect him. Blood was coming out of his mouth. He was biting his tongue. I stuck my finger in his mouth to try to clear his tongue so he could breathe.” A neighbor came running and started CPR. In tears, he added, “ I just couldn’t get him back.” She speculated that his killer may have been tracking down someone else.
Joel said he and his son often prayed during their rides to school. Now, he said, he is praying for his son’s killer to be captured. “He was going to be a champion in life.” “He just didn’t get a chance to show it.” Jarell did not die in vain. He loved life, his family and laughter. The Jarell Seay Love and Laughter Foundation was established to honor his memory, his many great talents and love. Their goal is to unite the community with peace and love, while offering positive alternatives to prevent violence.
Jerome Salley
Daniel Santiago
Daniel Santiago
January 26, 1991 – November 17, 2009
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Nyahzul
Jerome, nicknamed “Bodda,” was a miracle baby – he was only 2 lbs, 3 oz at birth. He was not supposed to arrive til March.
He had a lot of friends – he was well liked. Jerome loved to make people laugh. He was very creative – he was a good photographer and
January 26, 1991 – November 17, 2009
18 years old
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Nyahzul
Jerome, nicknamed “Bodda,” was a miracle baby – he was only 2 lbs, 3 oz at birth. He was not supposed to arrive til March.
He had a lot of friends – he was well liked. Jerome loved to make people laugh. He was very creative – he was a good photographer and also enjoyed being photographed as a model. He loved singing and dancing.
He was a lady’s man –– he was charming, funny and good natured. More then anything, he loved his mom.
Jerome was a peacemaker. If he could help anyone he would. If he could break up a fight he would. If he could help someone improve their life he would.
He had recently graduated from Ben Franklin High School and attended his prom with his girlfriend. He was about to start a new job on November 18, but his life was cut short on November 17.
That night he told his mom he would be right back. “I’m going to play some basketball.” He left the house as 3:30. His mom, Virginia, stood at the door and watched him walk away. He blew her a kiss and she blew him a kiss. After the game, as Jerome was leaving the recreation center gun fire broke out. Everyone scrambled, but Jerome was shot in the neck. By 7:45 that evening Virginia received a phone call from the Hospital telling her he had been shot. When she arrived doctors informed her that Jerome didn’t make it.
“God gave him to me too soon and he left too soon” – said his mom. Jerome’s family and friends miss him and think of him everyday
Daniel Santiago
Daniel Santiago
Daniel Santiago
21 years old
November 4, 1993 - July 2, 2015
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Daniel loved his family and his friends. He had many friends and was known to "pick up for people" - do anything he could to help them. People in the neighborhood looked up to him. His smile lit up the room. He was funny and enjoyed making people laugh to
21 years old
November 4, 1993 - July 2, 2015
Philadelphia, Pa
Painted by Karl Hanson
Daniel loved his family and his friends. He had many friends and was known to "pick up for people" - do anything he could to help them. People in the neighborhood looked up to him. His smile lit up the room. He was funny and enjoyed making people laugh to lift their spirit.
Daniel was good at math and computers. He loved playing basketball although it was hard from him because he had pain from a hip disease.
He was a father at a young age. So he dropped out of school and worked hard. He spent the his spare time with his son at Dave and Busters or enjoying milk shakes together. He had a passion for riding and fixing dirt bikes and wanted to open a business with his mom to fix and maintain dirt bikes.
Two younger kids from the neighborhood had been robbed on the corner where he was outside working on a dirt bike. They came up to him to tell him what happened. The next day, Daniel went to find the guys who robbed them, when the robbers came out with a gun and shot him out of the blue. Daniel died before he made it to the hospital. His family misses him every day
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