Hi, my name is Jeanette, and I’m reaching out with a heavy heart. On June 10, 2025, our family suffered an unexpected and devastating loss. My brother, James M. Alston Jr. — affectionately known as Speedy — passed away suddenly at home in Buffalo, NY.
Speedy was more than a brother to me — he was my lifelong friend, my fellow jokester, and the person who could make me laugh even on the toughest days. Every phone call ended the same way: “I love you.” His warmth and humor left a mark on everyone he met.
He was also a loving father to three daughters. His youngest, who just turned 20, was the one who found him. She’s still reeling from the shock, and like many young people in that moment, didn’t know what to do next. With our mother currently in Mississippi and so many details to manage, the responsibility of making final arrangements has fallen to me — something I do with love, but also with limited resources.
Unfortunately, Speedy did not have a life insurance policy, a reality many families face when tragedy strikes unexpectedly. I am sharing our story not just to ask for help, but also as a reminder to please take a moment and think about your own coverage and that of your loved ones. Life insurance isn’t about expecting the worst — it’s about protecting the people you love the most.
We are raising funds to cover funeral expenses, the repass, and to provide a bit of relief to his daughters, especially his youngest, who is now navigating adulthood without the guidance of her father.
️ The Wake and Funeral
Date: Friday, June 20, 2025
Location: Thomas T. Edwards Funeral Home
Wake: 11:00 AM
Funeral: 12:00 PM
Repass: TBD
If you’re able to contribute — no matter the amount — your generosity will go directly toward helping us give Speedy the homegoing celebration he deserves. And if you can’t give, please consider sharing this campaign, and more importantly, take a moment to check in on your own family’s preparedness.
From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your support, your prayers, and for keeping our family in your thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
With love and gratitude,
Jeanette Alston-Hawkins
