My son, Daryl Washington, was murdered on July 29, 2014. He was shot in the head while defending a family member against a local gang and the mob of members that came to attack. He had just turned 27 that April. Daryl loved his family more than himself. He was tall, handsome, loving and respectful of everyone. And he was loved in return.
He loved working out and basketball. He counseled kids in the summer, and they loved him because he was so considerate of them. He was a gentle giant.
D Wash, as he was known to his friends and teammates, was known for his big, beautiful smile, generous heart and great big hugs, available to all.
Three and a half years after his death, there was finally a trial. We got a conviction, but not the justice he deserved.
I have suffered through depression and an emptiness that can never be filled. My life and relationships have changed. I will never be the same. I thank God for carrying me through these years. I don’t want to know where I’d be without Him. I am, however, acutely aware of how empty I am without my son, my Daryl, every single day!