Jaylen Larizzio Treymain Lindsey of Hixson, Tennessee passed away on Saturday, August 17, 2024. We are devastated and heartbroken; losing Jaylen we must rely on God’s promises and believe he has a plan for Jaylen in his Kingdom. Born on November 9, 2004, in Chattanooga, Tennessee Jaylen was the cherished son of Reeshonda Witherow and John Lindsey, III. Jaylen will always be the “Sunshine” in our lives.

Jaylen gave his life to Christ at the tender age of nine (9) at Orchard Knob Missionary Baptist Church, 1734 East Third Street under the leadership of Reverend Carlos D. Williams and was baptized on the 1st Sunday in June 2015. He participated in Vacation Bible School, Sunday School, and 212 University Wednesday night Youth Fellowship.

In the formative years of Jaylen’s education, he demonstrated a keen interest in mechanics and electronics teaching him patience and problem-solving skills that proved beneficial once entering high school. In high school, he discovered his passion for the Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (AFJROTC). Jaylen’s dedication to AFJROTC allowed him to demonstrate his natural leadership abilities and his commitment to teamwork. He was known for his humility, sincerity, honesty, and compassionate nature, balanced by a no-nonsense attitude. His infectious smile and his magnetic personality were his greatest assets.

Jaylen graduated from Hixson High School in May 2023 earning numerous accommodations and awards for his efforts. His devotion to his studies and his leadership in AFJROTC earned him the respect of his peers and instructors alike. Seven (7) First Place Trophies Arm Flight IDR, Two (2) Second Place Flight Arm IDR Trophies, Distinguished Cadet Award, National Military Reserve Association Officer Award, Outstanding Cadet - 11th Grade Class, Lead Commander of the AFJROTC Cadets (First African American in this role under the current leadership), National Award - Dandelion Association, AFJROTC Outstanding Performance, and Dedication to Service Leadership Award, Outstanding Leadership Skills Demonstrated as a Commander Excellence Award - Summer Leadership Training and graduated with honors from the Hixson High School JROTC program. Jaylen’s final accomplishment came when he led his Cadets as Commander in the Arm Forces Day Parade, in May 2023.

Jaylen also had a passion for motorcycles and cars. He formed a strong bond with classmates from high school and his neighborhood and they would ride together mainly on weekends and holidays exploring the Hamilton County, Chattanooga, and borderline Georgia Communities.

Jaylen was employed at Walden Security as a Security Guard stationed at Chattem Chemical, Inc., pending his enlistment in the United States Air Force.

Jaylen leaves behind to cherish his memories parents: Reeshonda (Kelvin Turner) Witherow and John (Monyetta) Lindsey, III of Chattanooga; siblings: Kionna Lindsey, Khloe Lindsey, and Zy’Aire Lindsey, Chattanooga; favorite and only, niece Lyrik Jones, Chattanooga; grandparents: Tennie (Nana) Lindsey, John (Yvonne) Lindsey, II, Larry (Harriet-Meme) McNeal; aunts: Alexia Burney Smith and Reeshema Taylor, both of Chattanooga, Celestine Lindsey, Jackson, MS; uncles: Reginald Witherow, Chattanooga, Eric Lindsey, Las Vegas, Nevada; godparents: Hiwatha Haywood, Chattanooga, Sam and Thirchrista Austin, and godbrothers, Teddy, Delmar, Jr., and Chris all of Las Vegas, Nevada; close cousins, Raheem, Mack, Khaiya, R'Iana, Mya, Tae Tae, and Tracey; a host of aunts, cousins, and family. Friends: Yousef, Nalin, Nehemiah, Selena, Evan G., Adam, Trey, Matthew, Kinzie, Evan H., Tomas, Gage, Kentrell, Gauge, Lacey, Gracie, and Shylla. Supportive Instructors and Friends: AFJROTC Instructors from Hixson High School, Master Sergeant Douglas Burhans, and Lt. Colonel John Fann.

As he leaves family behind, he is welcomed by family, his Uncle Ronnie Larizzio (Rizzie) Witherow, Great-Grandparents, JT and Annie Witherow, John (Celeste) Lindsey, Sr., and Mary Lene Robinson plus other family and friends.

\

Jaylen was deeply loved and supported by a strong, spiritually guided family. His memory will be cherished by his parents, sister, dear niece, grandparents, and a village of family members

and friends who will continue to honor his legacy.

Public viewing will be held starting at 1:00 pm until 5:00 pm, Friday, August 30, 2024, at the funeral home.

At 1:00 pm, Saturday, August 31, 2024, a celebration of Jaylen's life will be held at Orchard Knob Baptist Church located 1734 East Third Street.

Arrangements by John P. Franklin Funeral Home, 1101 Dodds Avenue, Chattanooga, 423-622-9995.