Keeaundre Markeis Gaines

Born on November 25, 1991, in Tucson, Arizona, Keeaundre was the son of Tyrone Brown and Alisha “Shodie” Jennings-Gaines. From a young age, Keeaundre carried a deep love for his family and an unmistakable presence that drew people to him. He had a heart that loved hard, laughed loud, and cared deeply. Family was everything to him, and anyone who knew Keeaundre knew how fiercely he loved his people.

Above all else, Keeaundre was a father. His children—Laniah Cade, Jay’vius King-Gaines, Keeaundre Gaines Jr., Keilani Gaines, and Kayveas Gaines—were his pride, his motivation, and his greatest joy. His love for them was unconditional and unwavering, and his legacy will forever live on through them.

Keeaundre found happiness in being surrounded by those he loved—spending time with family and friends, traveling to Oregon to be with extended family, creating music that reflected his soul, and playing basketball, which he truly enjoyed. He had a special bond with his nephews and took pride in styling them, always wanting them to look and feel their best. These moments, filled with laughter and love, are memories that will be treasured forever.

Well known and deeply loved by many, Keeaundre had a way of making people feel seen, welcome, and valued. His smile, his voice, his humor, and his presence were unforgettable. His absence leaves a silence that cannot be filled, but his love will continue to echo through every life he touched.

He was preceded in death by Tommy Gaines Sr., Tommy Gaines Jr., his mother Alisha “Shodie” Gaines, his older sister Mollisha Jennings, Lendora “Aunt Mamie” Davis, and Uncle Vernon Ray Berry. Though separated from them in life, he is now reunited with them in peace.

Keeaundre leaves behind his loving mother Bobbie Sue; many brothers and sisters; countless nieces and nephews; and a wide circle of family and friends who will forever carry his memory in their hearts.

Though his time on this earth was far too short, Keeaundre Gaines Sr. leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, music, and devotion to family. He will always be remembered as a loving father, a loyal friend, and a man whose heart was bigger than words can express. He will never be forgotten—his love lives on, forever.