Amari Yral Michael

Amari Yral Michael was born on January 18, 2002, in Los Angeles, California, at Centinela Hospital. Amari was the first child born to his mother, the first grandchild to his maternal grandmother, whom he lovingly called “Ma,” and the first nephew to his aunts, Mel Mel and Kim. He immediately became the star of the family, being the first boy and baby born into our immediate family in many years. His mom called him “Sonshine” and would rock him to sleep as a baby while singing, “You are my Sonshine, my only Sonshine, you make me happy when skies are grey.”

Amari was the happiest and most giggly baby, and that joy carried over into an energetic and friendly little boy. He made friends wherever he went — at the playground, the beach, school, or even the grocery store. Everywhere he went, he would make a friend, or a friend would find him. His personality was so magnetic that he drew strangers in to talk with him, whether they were young or old. This continued to be one of Amari’s special qualities in young adulthood and still rings true to everyone who knew him.

A pivotal point in Amari’s life was when his mom met his dad (Kevin) when he was seven years old. They both almost immediately bonded with each other and became a family blended beyond blood. Amari without being prompted, called Kevin Dad, and this developed into a family dynamic that was our own.

Amari was ten years old when his mom and dad moved the family to Las Vegas; when he was thirteen, they settled in Glendale, Arizona. Amari always embraced new places and loved adventure. He was a risk-taker in almost every way. From trying different foods like alligator meat, chitterlings, and all kinds of delicacies, he developed favorites such as chicken feet and cow foot soup. He also loved dirt-biking with friends and hiking with groups he found on social media.

Amari also had an easygoing side that led him to love fishing. He would often go fishing late at night because he learned it was easier to catch fish that way. One thing about Amari; he loved to look good and smell good, especially on special occasions. He would choose from one of his many pairs of high-top Jordans, iron his clothes just like his grandma taught him, and top it all off with one of his colognes before heading out. But that was only after getting a fresh haircut or having his dreads freshly twisted when he wore them.

Above all, Amari treasured the time he spent with his family and friends. He took pride in being the best big brother, and he exceeded expectations with his little sisters, Kaylani, Kyndal, and Kamirah. The bar was set high for any future partners, and I am sure he will be watching over anyone who comes around them. Amari also loved being a little brother and shared an unbreakable bond with his older sister, Kourey. They always picked up right where they left off, no matter how much time had passed since they last saw each other.

Amari leaves behind a lifetime of memories for his parents, Rochelle and Kevin Bradley, and William Michael; his siblings, Kenroy, William, Kourey, Kamrin, Kaylani, Kyndal, and Kamirah; his grandmothers, Maureen Francis and Gloria Wilds; and a host of loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Finally, I want Amari to know what an honor it was to be his mom. You were the best son a mother could ever ask for. You and your sisters are my greatest achievements and my greatest motivation. Thank you for choosing me. You will forever be my Sonshine.

I will end with our favorite phrase to each other:

(Amari) Pick me up, Mom!’

(Me) ‘Pick me up, Son!’

I love you forever.”