Impact, surrender, love, energy, light
Justin was a family man who his loved ones knew was dependable and caring. They would all attest to his magnanimity, as it shone through in the ways he showed up for everyone with love and support. Though his life was challenging at times, he was extremely proud of himself for everything he accomplished and all the obstacles he overcame.
Justin was exuberant and full of life and loved doing outdoor things such as boating, jet skiing, snowmobiling, and riding motorcycles. He also enjoyed hanging out with his best friends, Joe. and Charlie, driving around, listening to music and hitting the city to dance at techno clubs. He ensured his appearance was impeccable, with a fresh haircut, slick new shoes, and a stylish hat.
Justin and his sister Miriah were very close throughout their lives. Some of Miriah’s favorite memories were the yearly summer vacations with their family at the Weirs in New Hampshire and growing up on Short Beach in Nahant, MA. Justin’s parents eventually bought their own camp at Moultonborough, NH and spent more time there, gathering the family for Fourth of July and Christmas. Miriah has fond memories with Justin of sledding down Harbor View Rd., riding big wheels, and picking all the marshmallows out of their Lucky Charms.
Justin had a profound love for his family and wanted nothing more in the world than to own a home and start his own family. Though he never got to see that dream come to fruition, he was his niece Adrianna’s God father and had an incredible love for her and her brother, Dantae. Justin frequently went to visit his parents in New Hampshire. Justin and his father bonded by taking boat and snowmobile rides, and he enjoyed dinners and beach time with his mother.
For work, Justin used his hands to master his work as an electrician. He undertook the apprentice program with the local Electrician Union and worked as a Low Voltage Technician for 17 years. Justin also trained with Atlas Project at the close of 2020 and realized his potential as a loving, trustworthy, and reliable leader.
Miriah says that all the programs and treatment Justin experienced led him to become a more compassionate and empathetic person with more trust about the world. She says she will never regret supporting him through his substance use disorder even though it caused a strain on her family. Since Justin’s death, she has worked for a nonprofit that promotes substance use prevention in teens, Ipswich Aware. Miriah is producing a documentary about addiction during the pandemic, documenting her life with Justin. She also volunteers at the Sun Will Rise Foundation and holds space for sibling support groups. In addition, she does one-on-one and group support as a coach, reiki master, and grief movement guide.
Justin’s sister, Miriah, provided information for this narrative.
April 2, 1983–May 21, 2021-Age 38
Portrait Artist: Shawn Faust
Narrative Writer: Victoria Estes
