Jalen came into this world April 5, 1994 a few weeks early as a preemie to parents Robin Gillum and Matthew Rice. His weight did not limit his ability to wiggle his way into the hearts of his family. He was an active, curious, witty child who excelled at anything physical, as well as, an interest in learning about everything. He spent his early years in Lansing, Michigan, moved to Jackson, MI in the first grade and remained there, finishing school in Michigan Center, MI.
He loved all outdoor activities, especially swimming, skateboarding, rollerblading and basketball. He loved spending time with his family especially holiday family gatherings with all his favorite foods. He was the valued family member for their competitive Taboo board game teams and any other trivia-based game or word game, he was just that smart. He loved to travel with family, his grandmother “Omie” on solo road trips and going to Florida in the winter with both Gillum grandparents, known to the grandkids as Omie and GP. Jalen was known to sit in the back seat of car rides reviewing the street layout as it related to Monopoly game locations including a memorable trip to the hotel in Atlantic City. He had an interest in the history surrounding all the places he visited. And kept his love for car rides throughout his life, those that know him say he just loved being in the car all the time.
Jalen was full of life and never met a stranger. He was funny, always smiling, laughing, loved all people and had a magnetic personality from birth through adulthood. He was known for his caring, loving, energetic, wit and charm toward everyone he met. He had a big heart, was kind, giving and easily engaged in thoughtful to deep philosophical conversation with all ages whether shrinking his 6’4” stature to play and entertain the smallest kids to shooting the breeze with the elders. He was a gifted, knowledgeable communicator and could persuade or sell anyone anything. Jalen’s other passion was making and listening to music and producing and performing his rap songs and music videos with his friends. Fashion was another passion, he loved going shopping and was known for always wearing the hottest sneakers and sunglasses.
Jalen is a beloved son, grandson, brother, nephew, cousin and attentive father of five children all under the age of 10. He deeply loved his beautiful children and was a great father with a special magic with his babies, calming their crying, cuddling, late night feedings and mastering the diaper changes. Skills he learned and practiced as a big brother helping his mother, Robin. They enjoyed trips to the park, zoo, Zap Zone, out for ice cream and when away kept in touch on FaceTime.
Jalen is survived by his Parents, Robin Gamble and Matthew Rice, his children Kiara (8), Jalen, Jr. (Baby J) (5), Katalina (4), Zhy’onn (4), Jaz’lyn (3) and their Mothers, Breanna Thomas, Irene Torres-Abrego & Kalasia Soto; Brothers Matthew Rice, Jr. & Justin Fuller; Grandparents, Dr. Ron & Harriette Gillum; Uncle Ron Gillum, Jr., Aunt Rhonda Walker Drumheller (Jason), Aunt Lorie Cole (Jeffrey); first Cousins, Ronald Gillum III, Simone Gillum, Isaac Gillum & Maija Gillum and a host of loving great Aunts, Uncles, second & third Cousins.
As an expression of sympathy, the family suggests memorial contributions in support of Jalen Gillum’s five surviving children Kiara (8), Jalen, Jr. (Baby J) (5), Katalina (4), Zhy’onn (4), Jaz’lyn (3).
Contributions can be made at the visitation or payable to Robin Gamble via check
Mailing Address: 1600 Clay St. Suite 313 Detroit, MI 48211
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Zelle – [email protected]
A more formal memorial fund is being established to accept credit card contributions at a later date.
The family will receive friends at Burden & Patience-Montgomery Funeral Home on Wednesday, August 10, 2022 from 2:00 - 6:00 PM.
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