Remembering Stephenson Aman

On Sunday, May 22, a bright light in Somerville and the world went out with the sudden death of Stephenson Aman, who was loved, admired, and important to so many. The shock waves of this tragic news have rippled far and wide through our community. So many are feeling numb, confused, and heartbroken. It is hard to grasp that such a kind, generous, inspired soul who was a friend to all he met could be taken from us so suddenly. At the core of the community's grief, his family, too, are confronting this unthinkable loss of a son, a brother, a nephew, a cousin, an uncle, and a father.  We cannot stop the heartache for his loved ones. But those who cared about Steph can help ease this difficult time by joining together to help to cover some of the costs of his funeral.

 

Those of us who basked in the warmth of Steph’s spirit, who knew he would do anything for anyone, who were always better for having his support, who saw him strive to create a better life for those who face the greatest challenges, who saw him lead while building leadership in others, who found ourselves smiling just because he was there, we can now come together to show that same warmth to the family that helped make Steph the beautiful human being that he was.

 

If you can contribute any amount no matter the size, it will be welcome. For anyone who cannot afford to give, we ask you to simply hold Steph in your heart. Remember who he was, bring him into your actions each day, carry his kindness and joy with you. In the words of his brother, Jean:

 

“My brother is a very funny person. He will not pass a person on the street without saying hi. He would talk to random people. I’d say, ‘You can’t talk to everyone.” And he’d say, ‘I like to talk to people’. He was such a loving person. He was a mentor because he cared. Community meant everything to him. He would go out of his way for others. He was a good person. A really good person.”

 

Thank you for your support.