The Heartbreaking Death Of Jamie Foxx's Younger Sister
Jamie Foxx has lost his beloved little sister DeOndra Dixon, who has passed away at the age of 36. Foxx made the announcement today on Instagram, where he penned a beautiful, moving tribute to DeOndra, saying, "My heart is shattered into a million pieces ... my beautiful loving sister Deondra has transitioned ... I say transitioned because she will always be alive ... anyone who knew my sis ... knew that she was a bright light ... I can't tell you how many times we have had parties at the house where she has got on the dance floor and stolen the show ... even gave her boyfriend @chrisbrownofficial a run for his money ... well I know she is in heaven now dancing with her wings on ...tho my pain is unbelievable I smile when I think of all of the great memories that she left me ... my family ... and her friends ..."
Foxx continued, writing, "from dancing in the blame it video ... to Dancing on the Grammys ... And becoming The ambassador to @globaldownsyndrome ... from sliding down my stairs with a grin as wide as the rio grand ... to serenading us with all of her music ... Deondra you have left A hole in my heart ... but I will fill it with all of the memories that you gave me ... I love you with every ounce of me ... our family is shattered but we will put the pieces back together with your love ... and y'all please keep my family in your prayers."
People reports that Dixon died on Monday, October 19.
DeOndra Dixon was an Ambassador for the Global Down Syndrome Foundation
DeOndra Dixon was born in 1984 and was named the Ambassador for the Global Down Syndrome Foundation in 2011. She began competing in the Special Olympics at a young age. On her the Global Down Syndrome page, Dixon wrote: "I know my family loves me. They never set limits and always make me feel I can touch the sky. I started participating in Special Olympics when I was in the 6th grade. I participated in the Special Olympics for over 9 years and won many awards and medals."
Dixon was a beautiful soul with big dreams. "I feel I was born to dance. I want to be a professional dancer. My brother has given me a chance to do some special things. I danced in his video 'Blame It.' I've danced on stage at some of his concerts all over the country. And guess what? I've danced at the Grammy's! Lots of kids with Down syndrome never get a chance to shine or chase their dreams," she noted. "Each one has something to offer and each one has a dream. Please help me and my family to advocate for so many beautiful and brilliant children with Down syndrome who've been neglected. Together we will make dreams come true."
DeOndra Dixon was a 'leader and role model'
The Global Down Syndrome Foundation has said it will honor Foxx's sister with a special tribute at a virtual fashion show to be held on November 14. DeOndra Dixon has been named as the inspiration for the organization's highest honor: the Quincy Jones Exceptional Advocacy Award. The group's president and CEO Michelle Sie Whitten paid tribute to the vibrant and inspiring woman, noting, "Global has lost our talented, intelligent, feisty, beautiful, kind, loving, caring, pure and giving heart, DeOndra Dixon. Our Down syndrome community has lost a beacon of hope, a true leader and role model whose aim was to always help others" (via The Hollywood Reporter).
Celebrities have offered words of support for Jamie Foxx
Messages of condolences have poured in over Instagram from fans and friends, with one from fellow actor Michael B. Jordan, who responded to Foxx's post by noting: ""Here for you brother! No words can ease what you're going through but the Jordan's are here for you and your family!!" (via CBS News).
Singer and songwriter Stephanie Mills also sent her words of condolences on Instagram: "I want to send my condolences and a huge hug to @iamjamiefoxx and his family during this difficult time as his sister #Deondra transitioned on the be with God. As a mother to a son who was born with #Downsyndrome I can feel the loss as they didn't just say see you later to just another love one. Those that are born with #downsyndrome are sooo loving, patient, kind, and just full of love. They light up any room they are in. May God cover your family Jamie. Those parties will never be the same. You will have those wonderful memories that I am sure your sister left you with. My prayers and love."