HR0380 101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0380 LRB101 12435 ALS 60546 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois House of Representatives are saddened to learn of the death of Jaylon McKenzie of Belleville, who passed away on May 5, 2019; and

WHEREAS, Jaylon McKenzie was born to Sukeena and Otis Gunner on November 29, 2004; he attended Central Junior High in Belleville during the fall 2018 term; he transferred to Mason-Clark Middle School in East St. Louis for the spring; and

WHEREAS, Jaylon McKenzie had wanted to play football since he was three-years-old; his talent was on the radar of major college programs, including the University of Illinois and the University of Missouri; he had already received scholarship offers; in October 2018, Sports Illustrated featured him as one of "six teens who will rule the future of sports"; he played basketball and participated in track and field, but football was his favorite; he followed a daily routine that included school, practice, and homework; and

WHEREAS, Jaylon McKenzie was dedicated to being the best athlete and student he could be; he was a silent leader; he did not say much; he led; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE ONE HUNDRED FIRST GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Jaylon McKenzie and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Jaylon McKenzie as an expression of our deepest sympathy.