Well-spoken, kind best friend
Malachi’s presence was unlike any other, and according to his sister Jaelyn, he was “the best person to be around, [and] the best person [she] knew.” No one could’ve guessed that such a shy kid would turn into the jolly jokester and shameless dancer he’d become. Laughter was his favorite language, and when accompanied with his unique smile and undeniable charisma, he was a true delight to be around. Though careful to bring strangers into his inner circle, those he trusted were gifted unparalleled loyalty and support. Jaelyn states that her brother would “give the shirt off his back” without a second thought.
His childhood was spent mostly in the presence of his grandmother “Nanny” and grandfather “Papa.” If Nanny was around, Malachi could do no wrong. His sister Jaelyn, brother Kamden, and stepbrother Jacob formed tight bonds as they grew. Malachi enjoyed fishing with his grandparents, hot afternoons jumping on the trampoline with a sprinkler flooding it from underneath, and rides on Papa’s tractor. Kamden shared Malachi’s love for music, and in time, Malachi began composing new songs with his friends. Holidays were spent with loved ones, with Nanny’s cooking and Malachi’s laughter filling the home with mouthwatering aroma and endless joy.
Malachi’s greatest treasure was his son, Julion Pierre. He doted on his boy, reading stories to him while he nestled him safely in his arms, bathing and swimming with him, and spending every spare moment being the best dad he could be. Julion’s presence gave Malachi’s life purpose, spurring him forward into working harder for a brighter future. He loved and cared for his son unconditionally.
Looking forward, Malachi’s dreams included creating more music and becoming a clothing designer. He planned to watch his son grow, to be the kind and encouraging father Julion deserved. His future was bright and his energy even more so. Instead, a single pill on a social night snuffed out Malachi’s light and left his loved ones in darkness.
Malachi’s smile, the sound of his voice, and his uplifting disposition are terribly missed by his family. Jaelyn grieves because she saw him slowly change, recalling Malachi’s true nature and their years together all the while. She wonders how she could’ve helped more, how his life would look now if not for that one fateful choice. The grief and regret are overwhelming. She states, “I know you aren’t supposed to question [the what-ifs], but sometimes it’s hard not to.” The permanency of a single decision, the impact it can have, weighs heavily on her.
Jaelyn and Malachi’s mother started “The 1:11 Project,” a non-profit educating schools, churches, and organizations with their message, “Fentanyl kills.” Their mission is to raise awareness around its dangers and to advocate for mental health. In reference to those struggling with substance use disorder, Jaelyn calls us all to, “Be their voice, [to] be the change. Because I wouldn’t wish what his passing has made my family feel on anyone, ever.”
Malachi’s sister, Jaelyn Reyes, provided the information for this narrative.
January 26, 2000-August 6, 2020-Age 20
Portrait Artist: Shawn Faust
Narrative Writer: Jill Denton
