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Angela Tanner

In memory of Devonte Ray Patrick

As a mother of three and a survivor of gun violence, sharing my story is a absolute must! In hopes of helping someone in this emotional toll that is takes on one’s family! My son Devonte “Ray” Patrick was murdered December 23, 2013, at the age of 18 — a mother’s worst nightmare. Ray was the youngest of my three sons. He just graduated from high school. He was so excited about his future and the plans he had for college, and six months after graduating, he was dead! We miss him so much, he was the comedian in the family, he loved to make people laugh. There’s not a day that goes by I don’t think about him.

I’ll never forget the day he died. The doctors came out and pronounced that there was nothing else they could do, he didn’t make it! But it was like I heard his voice loud and clear, saying, “Mom, you gotta do something, please don’t let them get away with this.” Well, Ray, I haven’t given up nor will I ever! I’ve kept my promise and I will continue to fight to prevent gun violence. We love you and miss you dearly.

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