I remember on my 21st birthday, I had to work the whole day. I was feeling pretty down about it, especially since all of our friends were busy that day. After work, I remember calling you, and without skipping a beat, you became free to hang out. You even took me to the grocery store to buy my first bottle of liquor, Kilo Kai. It was one we never tried before, and it instantly became one of our favorites. We then spent all night hanging out, drinking, joking around, and going on our random rants. It was at that point that I realized that I didn't ever need a big party, I didn't need a birthday cake, I didn't even need presents. I just needed my best friend to celebrate my birthday and I was happy. Happy birthday, Devon. I miss you, brother. One day, we'll finish our game of TQAU.

When I was growing up, my family didn't really celebrate Christmas. Because of that, Christmas didn't mean much to me in my middle school and high school years. I remember Junior year of high school, you inviting me over to your house to hang out on Christmas day. I didn't think anything of it and assumed Christmas also didn't mean much to you. To my surprise, you and Eric both had presents waiting for me, something I did not expect. Hilariously, the presents ended up being a super itchy wool hat and women's x-small felt gloves, but I cherish those gifts and have kept them to this day. Not only was it the first time in a long time that Christmas had meant something to me, but it also made me feel like I was a part of your family. It was one of many memories that have made me feel that no matter how much time has passed and will pass, we will always be family. Merry Christmas, Devon.

Today is Black Friday. When I was young, I never really understood why it was so exciting. If I never had the money to buy anything, then it's nothing special. That being said, I remember there was one Black Friday while we were in high school. You called me at 12am after Thanksgiving, wanting to hang out. I thought it was weird given the time, but I came anyways. We hung out at Maddy's house playing Monopoly until 3am. Then we all decided to stand in line at Target until they opened at 6am. We were cold. We had no money. There was no reason to be there. Despite all of that, it was one of the most fun Black Fridays. We were a bunch of irresponsible kids doing nothing of significance, but we bonded over such irresponsibility. So many great moments and memories were with you, and I wish we could have made more. I miss you, Devon. Your friend always, Chops

Dennis and Doris,I am so sorry to read about your loss of Devon.He sounds like a wonderful young man.Please accept my condolences and prayers for you all.Diane 

I had a chance to chat with Devon about his travels and language skills.  I was looking forward to more of that, but now that won't happen. I thought of him as an extraordinary gifted guy. He was handsome and looked very healthy, and was not too over or underweight. I'm really going to miss him!

Boomer & Wendi
I am sorry for your loss.  Thank you for sharing some memories about Devon’s travels and creative interests such as guitar and cooking.  I will always remember him as your bright son, and I ‘m sorry we didn’t know him better.  Please know I pray and send positive energy for you during this difficult time.  Love,  Joan and Bernie Park

Sending out prayers to the family.
So sorry for y’all’s loss.

Very sorry to hear of Devons passing. He was a wonderful person and will be missed. Prayers to his family and friends. May you find peace in the days ahead. 

Wendi, Frank and family,
So sorry for your loss. I have many happy memories when he and Brett were best buddies at Forest Elementary school. Will keep your family in my prayers. 
Love,
Catherine Williams

Dear Devon, 

My memories of you are full of adolescent joy and cheerful disregard for the rules. Through countless bonfires, late night walks, roller coasters, roof sits, and gatherings of friends, you were the irreplaceable center of it all. Any of our friends would say that your presence invariably improved each occasion; indeed, usually because the occasion itself was your idea. I came across an old Facebook post you wrote, inviting everyone to the annual trip to South Haven:

You wrote: “I feel its time to start the planning of the annual South Haven beach trip. This is the fifth year of South Haven trips! […] this should be an awesome day […] feel free to expand invitations, I don’t want anybody to feel left out!” 

To me, this captures your essence.  No matter who showed up (and it was often a motley crew), you made space for them, listened to their stories, and made them comfortable with your teasing and laidback attitude. With these gifts, you brought fresh delight and enthusiasm to each gathering of friends, no matter how ordinary the occasion. As I look back now, I realize that it was you who made them extraordinary. 

I will keep telling our stories from those very good old days. If I listen closely, I swear I can hear your resounding laugh in answer. Thank you for everything, dear friend. Rest in peace and know that you are loved, celebrated, and missed.

Love, Hilary

OBITUARY

Devon Alan Staley

10 August, 1991 – 13 September, 2024

Whitten Timberlake Chapel

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