SR0434 101ST GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0434 LRB101 12568 ALS 60968 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate 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; and

WHEREAS, Jaylon McKenzie was dedicated to being the best athlete and student he could be; he followed a daily routine that included school, practice, and homework; he was a silent leader; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE 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.