Jaleel Fort's Obituary
On July 3rd, 1992 a beautiful baby boy, Merdia Jaleel Fort (better known as Jaleel) was born to Merdia Victor Fort and Kier Deidre McCall in Berkeley, CA. Early on Jaleel showed tremendous love when it came to family and friends. Friends and family could always depend on him to be their ride or die person. His loyalty and dedication was visible to many. He was quick to lend a helping hand and willing to offer support when needed. He was also a generous person and willing to share with those around him.
Jaleel always had a special connection to the women in his family. Especially dedicated to his grandmother, Edna Oxner. He cared for Edna in her elder years by cooking, helping and serving her in numerous ways. He was her major support in her later years, even being bedside as she made her transition.
He loved his mother Kier unconditionally, always checking in with her to make sure she was ok. They had a very special relationship and bond that could never be broken. Such a bond that she felt something was wrong in her spirit and was instrumental in bringing awareness to Jaleel’s passing.
Lisette Piper is Jaleel and Thomas’s god mother and she gave Jaleel the nickname Lily Pad. Lisa shared a special bond with the boys as she cared for them in their earlier years.
Outside of the women Jaleel also had a clear admiration for his father Merdia Victor Fort. He always enjoyed spending time with him and shared a special bond. Enjoying the small things like family gatherings and fishing.
Jaleel also took on the big brother role when it came to his siblings. He was the glue that kept them all connected. He had a close and special relationship with them all individually. He grew up with Thomas and they shared a special bond, he was definitely his brothers keeper, standing by Thomas always. He and Christopher also had a special bond often riding together and shopping. Cianna and Jaleel also had their own bond, often talking on the phone and laughing together.
Jaleel also shared a special bond with his cousins, but had more of a special sibling bond with Kalica Carter, most times referring to her as a sister. They would talk to each other everyday, most times speaking for hours. He also adored Kalica’s children who called him Uncle Jaleel.
Jaleel and his infectious smile and laugh will truly be missed. He was a bright light in our families and losing him leaves a space that could never be filled. He is preceeded in death by His grandmothers Edna and Sarah, His grandfather Thomas, and father Victor. Left to mourn him is his mother Kier Deidre McCall, his brothers Thomas and Christopher. His sister Cianna and a host of aunts, uncles, cousins, extended family and friends.
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