Jadon Michael Goje Van Aarde

Jadon Michael Goje Van Aarde

Jadon Michael Goje Van Aarde entered into life on January 15th, 2009 in Queens, NY. He entered into rest March 5th, 2024 outside of his home in Maiden, NC. He was just 15 years old.

Jadon, it means, “Thankful”.

Who could say with words the way he touched each life? Does that strong, Hebrew name, mean that Jadon is thankful, or that we are thankful to have known him?

To have known the look in those crystal blue eyes that shone with intelligence. Or his firm handshake with youthful hands, as he said, “God Bless You”. Those same hands would move across ivory keys with an inspired gift that would go straight to your heart.

Jadon lived a divided life. If you knew him, you know what that means without explanation. Half boy, half man. One that would fill “boy” to his fullest ability. “Thumbs Up” was his trademark, and Rugby was his sport. A real friend amongst his peers, squeezing every drop of fun that could be had. Always though, with an eye to those around him, listening to his other half. If he ever noticed someone sitting to the side, not joining in, you would often find him seated near them, listening to their story, encouraging them to be a part.

As the only “man” in the house, Jadon negotiated the path of boy and manhood every day. Making his mother and sister laugh with his silly antics one minute and putting on his armor as protector to his family in the next. He never missed an opportunity to go to church, and you could see he had a deep desire to please the Lord.

Jadon loved and was loved by all who knew him. He’s survived by his father, Iedidia Goje, his mother, Eunice Van Aarde, his sister, Gianna Van Aarde, “Auntie” Diane Williams, Aunt Claudia Bestenbier, Uncle Christopher Van Aarde, Uncle Theophilus “Harvey” Van Aarde, Uncle Nathaniel “Tannie” Van Aarde, and Uncle Leon Van Aarde.

He was preceded in death by, Grandmother Mavis “Ma Mavis” Van Aarde, and Grandfather Frederick “Pa Freddy” Van Aarde.

He was the youngest of 22 grandchildren in the Van Aarde family with many cousins, friends, and loved ones who mourn his loss.

If you’ve had the privilege of knowing him in this life, you’ve seen the light of love and joy that he carried. When we reach that land beyond the river, there will be a Glory Hallelujah Jubilee heard throughout eternity. Until then, as Jadon never failed to say, “God Bless You”.