Marcel Sheron Downs died peacefully on August 16, 2023, surrounded by those who loved him most.

Marcel came to us in 1999 when the Sweet family was still mourning the passing of Sharon Sweet, our mother. Marcel was the light that drew us out of the darkness of grief. Summer knew she had birthed a prince – and what a prince he was. Marcel was a joyous, exuberant baby who grew into a rowdy toddler whose chubby-cheeked smile warmed every heart. When Marcel wasn't running circles around his parents, Summer and Dyshon, he was playing Spiderman in NY with his Aunty Chae.

As a teen, Marcel began to explore sports, enjoying football and basketball for a while. Later, he found his skill in boxing and quickly showed those who tried him that his smile wasn't a weakness – it was a warning. Even as he grew into manhood, Marcel never lost his youthful heart. His easy-going spirit made him the perfect big brother; he cared for and played with his brother and sisters as lovingly as he had been cared for.

In 2020, Marcel put his big brother skills to the test when his son, Zadyre, was born. That little boy mirrored him perfectly! Life in Trenton was eventful and full of lessons – Marcel grew up quickly. He was on his way to the next stage of his young life, with the love of his life, Bree, but the angels had other plans and carried him away from us far too soon.

Marcel leaves behind so many who will love and cherish his memory, but most profoundly his parents, Summer and Dyshon; his four siblings (Daevahn, Samara, Imani and Layla); Aunty Chae; Uncle Reuben; Pop Sweet; his love, Bree; his son, Zadyre; and his estranged wife and step-kids, Zion and Za'nae.

Marcel, our hearts will always be filled with the light of your smile. We love you.