What comes to mind when I think of my Uncle Keyo?
Blessed. I am so blessed to have had such a loving, funny, sassy, hardworking, and giving uncle in my life.
Family. We are not blood family, but you and Uncle Richard had been together longer than I have been alive. You are all I ever knew, you are my uncle. We had a bond that went beyond words — we both knew it. The chapter of having to say goodbye to you is a hard one.
A role model — in so many ways. Whether it was your authenticity, because you were always unapologetically yourself, or the way you carried yourself with confidence and love. You were an example that we should be nothing but confident being our genuine selves. And truly, your heart was as genuine as they come.
Love. You spread love wherever you went. Your warmth, sass, and energy pulled everyone in. When you were around, everyone was having a great time.
Hardworking. I was privileged to see you in several roles throughout your life. Whether working with handicapped children, earning your college degree, or continuing to move further up the professional ladder, you were an example of what hard work and dedication can do. I loved when you were in college and I was in high school, and you would come over almost every weekend to let me team up with you on your college work. I felt so privileged that you came to me and thought so highly of me. Then getting to watch you walk across that stage and receive your diploma, after all your hard work and dedication to making your life better, was a moment I will never forget.
A chef. He was also an amazing chef and baker — we all knew that. He never showed up to a family function without something delicious in hand. His sweet potato pie was always one of our favorites. Cooking and baking were another way he showed his love to the people around him. Uncle Richard was truly lucky to have him, and we were all lucky to experience a piece of his love.
Fashionable and always smelling good. You always dressed well and put your best foot forward.
Life gave me two uncles, and I am so lucky I got to call you family. Uncle Keyo, you were a wonderful person inside and out, and your friendship, love, and the impact you had on so many lives will be forever remembered. You will be deeply missed.
With love from your niece,
Nicole
