Jaylen Martinez

Jaylen Evan Martinez (September 15, 2011 – June 23, 2025) brought light and joy to everyone who knew him. Born to Ciera Martinez and Joey Rodriguez, Jaylen grew up surrounded by family and the game he loved. From a young age he could be found with a basketball in hand — playing for Liberty Middle School in Ashland, competing on local AAU teams, and dreaming of continuing his play at Benedictine High School. Those who watched him play remembered his competitive spark, his easy smile, and the way he encouraged teammates.

Family was central to Jaylen’s life. He was cherished by his parents, grandparents, and extended relatives who celebrated his many small triumphs and treasured ordinary moments together. The VCU community, where his father played and later coached, also felt his presence; coaches, teammates, and friends often welcomed him courtside and spoke of the joy he brought wherever he went.

Though Jaylen’s time with his loved ones was far too brief, the outpouring of support at his memorial reflected how many lives he had touched. Friends, coaches, and community members gathered to honor his memory, remembering him in the uniforms and on the courts where he belonged. The family asked that those who wish to honor Jaylen hold their own loved ones close and carry forward the kind of openhearted love he exemplified.

Jaylen will be remembered for his bright energy, his love of basketball, and the warmth he shared with friends and family. His memory endures in the stories, photos, and quiet moments that those who loved him will carry forward, a small but steady light in their hearts.