He was just beautifully human…
Camille was a creative soul, emanating with ideas and music. At age 15, Camille started writing raps and rhymes and performing them. His room overflowed with volumes and volumes of books. He particularly loved James Patterson. Rhythm and theory flowed from Camille, and he dreamed of sharing his rhymes with the world one day.
Family was central to Camille. He had a close bond with his mother Constance, with whom he would talk about everything and anything, ranging from politics to world events and anything in between. “It was precious and meaningful just to be with each other,” Constance remembers. His brother Isaiah was everything to him. Despite their 15-year age gap, they were incredibly close and Camille loved his little brother tremendously. He also enjoyed a deep connection with his Aunt Keisha since childhood. He loved his uncle, cousins, nieces, and nephews. Constance remembers that “Camille just loved everyone and everyone loved him.”
Camille loved his life, expressing his passion and joy with a laugh so hearty, “it could fill an entire football field” according to Constance. Everyone he met was struck by his charisma and would be laughing within five minutes of meeting him. He loved the Philadelphia Eagles, spending time with family and friends, and watching his favorite comedians.
Substance use disorder shattered Camille’s colorful life. It affected his mental health in every way possible. He actively sought help, spending time in and out of rehabilitation centers. Constance remembers “how desperately he wanted to escape the addiction, but couldn’t.” Having struggled with substance use disorder herself, Constance has always worked to help others but is more motivated than ever to prevent the tragedy of SUD from occurring to another individual or family in the wake of Camille’s untimely death. She is currently involved with Attack Addiction to bring awareness and healing to communities affected by SUD. Constance urges: “Let’s just do what we can to help prevent this from happening again. Every picture, face, story, I see. They are ALL my Camille’s.”
Camille’s mother, Constance Johnson, provided the information for this narrative
May 1, 1981-January 24, 2022-Age 40
Portrait Artist: Jeremy Hebbel
Narrative Writer: Livia Cohen
