Dear Mrs. Rodella,
This is Shacoreyia from up the street on Colonial Knolls. I met Deja in the 5th grade — we were introduced by Zanyia Lewis, who I had class with and would hang out with after school. From the moment we met, Deja and I instantly clicked. We became great friends and always enjoyed each other’s company.
When we got to middle school, we started hanging out even more outside of school with our group of friends. Some of my favorite memories are the ones we made just being kids — sitting on our porches making up funny stories, walking to the candy lady, and laughing and running around the swing park. Deja made those moments feel special.
She was one of the kindest, sweetest, and most funny-spirited people I’ve ever met. She was a great listener and always had a good vibe about her. No matter what was going on, she knew just what to say to make you laugh or feel better. Her laugh — you could never forget it. It was so full of life. Even the way she said my name made me feel special — she would always exaggerate it in the funniest way, like I was one of a kind. And when I did something silly, she'd laugh and tell me, “You’re crazy,” with that signature Deja giggle.
Her personality was calm and comforting — never too loud or overpowering. She was someone you could always be yourself around and still have a great time. We shared so many memories, some I’ll keep close to my heart, but one I want to share with you is how every morning in middle school, I would wake up, get ready, and walk to your house around 6 or 7 a.m. Her brother, Alonjre, would answer the door and yell, “Deja! Shacoreyia is here!” I’d sit in the dining room waiting for her to come downstairs — and when she did, I’d always ask if I could have a snack. Your house was always so clean and cozy, and I’ll never forget how fun and goofy Deja and Alonjre were together. You could tell how much they loved each other.
I love Deja very much. She was the kind of person who reminded me that there are truly good people in this world. I’m so lucky to have had her in my life, to laugh with her, and to make memories I’ll never forget. Losing her hurts deeply, but I believe God does everything for a reason. One thing I know for sure — Deja was unforgettable. Whether she’s here or gone, her spirit will always remain amazing.
With love shacoreyia