In a heartbreaking tribute posted on Instagram, Detriot Lions wide receiver, Marvin Jones Jr., revealed that his 6-month-old son had passed away.
On Christmas Day, Jones Jr. shared a cheerful video of his family of seven wishing all of his social media followers a happy holiday. The video featured his 6-month-old son Marlo.
Marvin Jones Jr. Opens Up After 6-Month-Old Son’s Unexpected Passing
Three days later, Jones Jr. took to Instagram again. This time, the father revealed that Marlo had passed away just a day earlier on December 27. He wrote:
“Yesterday, the Lord called home a piece of my family’s heart, Marlo. It is hard to believe that our little angel, our fighter from day one, our son ‘Marlito’ has unfortunately passed away and is no longer here with us. Marlo, the joy that you brought to us every day, with that smile, and that energy was like heaven on earth. You will always be in our hearts. We will always remember you.”
He continued, “We did not get the chance to hear your first words (It would’ve been in Spanish too). We didn’t get to see you run with your brothers and sister, you ran with them with your eyes every day.”
Jones Jr. then added that despite his son being gone, they know that he will remain a part of their family and “everything they do from here on out.”
“We know that everything that we do from here on out will be with you. Every step we take, you will be with us. Whenever we have a bad day, We will think of your smile. We miss you already buddy and will forever love you. Rest peacefully our sweet baby boy. You have gained your wings.”
Jones Jr.’s wife, Jazmyn Jones—a business owner—also took to Instagram following their baby boy’s unexpected passing.
“As I laid my sweet baby boy to rest today; I am still in disbelief that he gained his wings. My heart hurts knowing I will never get to hold you again, Marlo, but I know you will forever be with me, buddy. Thank you, EVERYONE, for all the calls, texts & prayers. I will respond soon but know they are all appreciated and help more than you know. I know with all the love and support that my family has received from so many we will be okay. God, give my baby all the hugs and kisses. I love you Marlo.”
Jones Jr. made the decision not to play with the Lions on December 29. However, he and his entire family attended the game as the team paid tribute to Marlo before the start of the game.
The team also released a statement after they were notified of Marlo’s sudden passing. The statement read, “Earlier today, we were informed by Marvin and Jazmyn Jones about the sudden passing of their youngest son, Marlo.”
“The Detroit Lions fully support Marvin and Jazmyn during this extremely difficult time. Marvin and Jazmyn embody the true meaning of family, and the example they set has made them an inspiration to so many in our community. We thank everyone for the outpouring of support.”
It remains unclear what caused Marlo’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Jones family during this difficult time.