Jaylon McKenzie Remembered: Family, Friends Honor 14-Year-Old Athlete 7 Years After Death

Jaylon McKenzie, who was shot and killed at a party in May 2019, was a star athlete at St. Louis. The accused in the case was convicted of second-degree murder. His family, however, continues to keep his memory alive.

McKenzie was just 14 years old, played football in East St. Louis leagues and at his school, and drew interest from major college programs.

McKenzie’s mother, Sukeena Gunner, said the University of Missouri and the University of Illinois extended offers to McKenzie even before he played a high school game. “I’ve never done this before,” the coach told Gunner, “but I cannot leave here without offering him a scholarship.”

However, the journey wasn’t easy; it meant long drives, sometimes eight hours at a time, and multiple trips within a couple of weeks. But Gunner said every mile was worth it. “It was for him, " he said. “No stage was ever too big for him,” Gunner added.

McKenzie's dreams of making it as a professional league player were shattered after the tragic shooting incident. “It is a pain that will never go away,” Gunner said.

Yet through the pain, a new purpose was born.

Gunner now shares her son’s story with young people, including those at the St. Louis County Juvenile Detention Center, many of whom face charges involving weapons. She hopes McKenzie’s stories will serve as a turning point. His legacy also lives on through those who knew him well.

Former teammate Kevin Coleman Jr. carries McKenzie's memory with him every day. Recently drafted by the Miami Dolphins, Coleman invited Gunner to his draft party as a guest, which underscored the lasting bond between their families. “He’s with me every day,” Coleman said. “I always think about him, what he would’ve done in this situation.”

Coleman, who also experienced loss at a young age, sees McKenzie's potential clearly. “If he were here, he would already be here,” he said. “If not in an even better position. He was special. That’s family, he was family, and she’s family,” he added.

Today, Gunner continues her mission with the support of athletes, community members, and organizations dedicated to keeping McKenzie’s name alive. Together, they work to ensure his story is not just remembered but used to inspire change.