Help Adama Kone's Final Journey Home

Some stars shine bright but for too briefly. Adama Kone, my beloved husband, passed away in the early hours of September 2, 2024, from a cerebral hemorrhage. His passing was very unexpected, and my heart is broken.

I first met Adama back in 2008, when I was first starting to learn how to play djembe. He was an amazing dancer who was fearless on stage, showing his power and energy with a smile that lit up the stage brighter than any stage light. Adama was known for his dancing and singing, with his brother, Abdoulaye, in his home country of Côte d'Ivoire. He traveled to the U.S. during a time of civil strife in his country, and he spent many years performing here with the UniverSoul Circus, Club Krave in Vegas, Cirque Zuma Zuma, Hermanos Vasquez, and even as a back dancer on T-Pain's Thr33 Ringz tour.

Adama and I married under the Burning Man mangrove tree at the River School Farm in Reno, Nevada, back in 2011. He was the best traditional West African dancer I had ever seen, and I tried my best to keep up with him on the djembe. We performed together at shows, along with friends, in Reno and in California, showcasing traditional drumming and dancing from his country. Adama shared his love of dance, teaching many students here in Reno, and in later years, he began working at the local Walmart store. We spent many years together, but not enough. Adama was my better half. He kept me grounded when my world seemed to be spinning crazily, and his gentle nature always persevered. Adama was a leader, and this showed when he was at work and also in caring for his family back in Côte d'Ivoire.

Life sometimes seems unfairly short for the best people. I am asking for your help to raise funds to grant Adama's last wish, which is to return home to Côte d'Ivoire and his family. Funds raised will help pay for his care and transport back home and to support his family during this saddest of all times. Adama was loved by many, and this world was a brighter place because of him. If you can, please help me provide Adama's final journey back to Africa.

I am hoping to provide the transport as soon as I can, to provide closure to the family. Services and prayers will be honored by the family at Adama's final resting place. If you know Adama, please share this page.