Aaliyah Nicole Arielle Anthony was born on October 3, 2003, in Blue Island, Illinois, and passed away on September 7, 2024, in Hillside, Illinois. She was a vibrant soul, deeply loved by her family and friends.

Aaliyah was a devoted mother to her twin sons, Ezra and Noah, whom she adored and referred to as her “pride and joy.” Her love for them was boundless, and she dedicated herself to being the best mother possible. She is survived by her parents, Tiffani and Christopher, along with her six siblings: Christopher Jr., Christina, Desteny, Rashanda, Sadè, and Carmelo.

Aaliyah was a passionate individual with a variety of interests. She enjoyed cooking, making TikToks, shopping, and singing, often sharing her love for music with artists such as Sza, Ariana Grande, and Miguel. Aaliyah had a particular fondness for soul, Mediterranean, Mexican, and Asian cuisines. Her favorite place in the world was the Chicago Botanical Gardens, where she found peace and tranquility.

Her commitment to education and community was evident in her pursuit of a bachelor’s degree in health sciences through Purdue University’s online program, building upon her experiences as a phlebotomist and a medical assistant. Aaliyah was actively involved in advocating for social justice, particularly focusing on racial equality, police accountability, and child abuse prevention. She served on the Student Leadership Advisory Committee during high school and helped organize a Black Lives Matter protest in Oak Park, demonstrating her dedication to making a difference.

Aaliyah’s charismatic, funny, and compassionate nature left a lasting impact on those around her. She was known for her empathy, always willing to lend a helping hand to those in need, and spoke out for those who deserved to be heard. Her belief in Jesus and God guided her actions, and she participated actively in her church community, including being a member of the choir and liturgical dance ministry.

Aaliyah will be remembered for her unwavering spirit and love for her family, friends, and community. She touched many lives and will be deeply missed by all who knew her.