I wore a shirt with her photo to honor her — it shows Jada’s birth and passing dates. Her life was taken by a senseless act of violence when she was only 27 years old.
The Pain of Losing Someone You Love
Losing someone you love… it breaks you. In that moment, everything seems to stop. Life freezes, and something inside you feels empty. You can lose your joy. You can lose yourself in grief. The emotional impact can be deep — sometimes leading to depression or holding you back from moving forward with your goals.
(If you enjoyed this post and want to try out the same ingredients and tools I use, feel free to check them out below!
These are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Thank you for supporting my work
- 7.5 Quart Cast Iron Dutch Oven: https://amzn.to/4dcUqms
- Lodge Pre-seasoned Cast Iron Skillet: https://amzn.to/3TyyMSA
- Bamboo Seasonings Box with Mini Spoon: https://amzn.to/4dfHzA6)
I know this news is painful for all of us, but it hit especially hard for her siblings Shannon, Courtney, and Jason — the ones who grew up under the same roof with Jada. When you grow up in the same household, that bond makes the loss feel different. Still, we are all grieving, just in our own ways.
Regret Over Lost Time
I loved my sister, and I feel heavy knowing we weren’t as close as we used to be when we were younger. As we grew up, life got busy and we drifted apart. I went to her graduation. We would text or talk here and there, but looking back, I wish I had been more present.
You never know when the last time with someone will be. And because of that, we have to make time — because time will not wait for us.
A Bit of Light in the Darkness
One thing that came out of losing Jada is that it brought our family closer. My siblings and I have been doing better about checking in, being present, and staying in each other’s lives. We really came together and realized we can’t let life get too busy for connection.
I’ll always be here for my family. That’s something I can say with my whole heart.
A Word About Life
In the times we’re living in — with all the mu-rder, violence, and ha-tred in this world — life is too short. Too short for grudges. Too short to spread darkness. Too short for bitter hearts. I truly believe it’s time for people to repair what’s broken in their relationships.
There are people who’ve lost a parent, a sibling, an aunt or uncle — and their relationship with that person wasn’t in a good place. If you can’t make peace face to face, then ask God to help you forgive in your heart. If that person chooses to walk away or shut the door on you, then let your spirit be at peace knowing you’ve done your part. Love them. Forgive them. And release the weight.
Remembering Jada
This video is for Jada. We weren’t the closest, but losing her made me realize just how important it is to show up for your siblings — in any way you can.
This matters in the world we live in today. Life is way too short for hate and darkness. That’s not the kind of energy we want around our families or our friendships.
I love you, Jada. Every year, I’ll do this in your memory. I want to celebrate you and show people the beauty of your life. All of us — your siblings — want to honor you and celebrate the 27 years you gave this world.
You’ll always be remembered. Always be loved.
Jada had a small YouTube channel where she shared her life as a young mom to two kids — Aiella and Isaiah. She was only 25 when she started, encouraged by her sister. She dreamed of sharing her family life, creating how-to videos, and connecting with people. That’s part of the legacy she left behind.
