Amari Maxwell

Amari Je'ray Maxwell was remembered by those who loved him for a bright laugh, a quick sense of humor, and a deep love of music. Born March 26, 2003 in Newport News, Virginia, Amari grew up surrounded by family and by the music and rhythms that shaped much of his day-to-day life. He recorded and made songs regularly and often enjoyed rapping with his siblings — music was a core part of how he expressed himself and connected with others.

A 2021 graduate of Warwick High School, Amari also enjoyed sports, particularly football. Those who knew him describe someone with boundless energy and a playful, “goofy” side that made him easy to be around. Alongside school and music, Amari held a job at a local McDonald's where coworkers came to regard the restaurant as a second home and where he found daily rhythm and community.

Family was central to Amari’s life. In interviews and at a community vigil following his death, relatives and friends shared memories of his smile, his laugh, and the small everyday moments — bringing his favorite strawberry cream pies to a gathering, joking with cousins, and supporting the people closest to him. His father, Carlos Russell, and other family members spoke about Amari's love for music and the bright personality he brought to family life.

Amari’s life was cut short after he suffered a gunshot injury on December 17, 2024 in Newport News and later died from his wounds. While the loss was sudden, the stories told at memorials and in remembrances emphasize the person he was: a young man with creative interests, loyalty to family, and warmth for friends and coworkers.

Though public details about his life are limited to what family and local reports have shared, those accounts make clear that Amari mattered deeply to many people. The memories offered by family, friends, classmates and coworkers paint a portrait of a young life loved for its energy, creativity and humor. He is remembered for the music he made, the laughter he shared, and the relationships that defined him.

If you knew Amari and would like to share a memory, his family and community members have gathered to honor him, and local funeral home notices list services where people have offered condolences and support.