Community Corner
'Blessing Miracle Baby' Remembered After NJ Drowning Death
"One second he was running through the yard watching his brothers sword fight- the next second he is gone," the family of wrote.
HOPATCONG, NJ — Devon Chasse-Williams was just 15 months old when he died over the weekend, but in those 15 months he was "the best thing that ever happened" to his family, they wrote in a heartfelt obituary.
Chasse-Williams was in his family's Hopatcong backyard on Saturday when he got into the pool and drowned, Lt. Megan McCluskey confirmed. An investigation is under way, but the death appears accidental, she said.
"You never know what life brings you. You never know how fast death comes. One second he was running through the yard watching his brothers sword fight- the next second he is gone," the family wrote.
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Born to Solstice Cafe owner Sean Williams and Jill Chasse on January 12, 2018, Chasse-Williams was a "blessing miracle baby conceived in Ireland's magic," the family said.
Although just 15 months old, Chasse-Williams had a big personality: He was a "vibrant, amazing, intelligent little red head that brightened up everyone's day with his silly little 'hello' or 'hi hi.'"
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In addition to his parents, Chasse-Williams is survived by his siblings, Malachi, Avalon and Xavier.
"Angel baby, now his soul forever free. Giving us his energy to survive the days ahead. Blessing our lives with his memory. Devon Richard we love your sparkling eyes, your silly laugh and know it will echo forever in our hearts," the family said.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, April 20 at the Van Tassle Funeral Home in Bloomfield.
The Hopatcong community has come to the support of the Chasse-Williams family, establishing a GoFundMe and a Mealtrain. Robin DeLorenzo, the GoFundMe's organizer, said the family has heard everyone's well wishes.
"The outpouring of the community and beyond has been incredible. We have made sure both Sean and Jill are aware of all those donating, your comments and love - thank you for your generosity and support. They are so grateful," DeLorenzo wrote.
So far, the GoFundMe has raised $9,300 towards a $25,000 goal, and sign-ups for the Mealtrain run through the end of May.
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